The decline in nutrients: effects on our diet

Evidence of the decline in nutrient density

A comprehensive study in 2004 in Journal of the American College of Nutrition It was published, compared the nutrient content of 43 different types of vegetables between 1950 and 1999. The researchers found that the content of protein, calcium, iron, vitamin B2 and vitamin C has decreased considerably over the years. A similar study from 2011 in Journal of Horticultural Science It found that carrots, broccoli and spinach today contain fewer vitamins and minerals than 50 years ago.

Causes of nutrient loss

The decline in nutrient density can be attributed to several factors:

• Intensive agriculture: Modern agricultural methods aim to maximize the yield. This leads to an impoverishment of the soil, since important minerals that are necessary for plant growth are continuously withdrawn. Without adequate soil maintenance and fertilization, plants cannot achieve optimal nutrient values.
• Breeding on yield and size: In recent decades, fruit and vegetables have been bred for fast growth and high yields. This often means that the nutrient concentration in the plants drops. Larger fruits and vegetables often contain more water and fewer nutrients per weight unit.
• Soil: Through years of intensive cultivation without sufficient soil regeneration, the soil loses many important trace elements such as magnesium, zinc and selenium. These elements are of crucial importance for the nutrient absorption of the plants.

The effects on health

Since many people obtain their nutrients primarily through fruit and vegetables, the decline in nutrient density has a direct impact on health. A lack of important vitamins and minerals can lead to a variety of health problems, including weak immune system, chronic diseases and reduced energy. It is also believed that the decline in antioxidants in food contributes to the increase in inflammatory processes in the body.

Scientific studies on nutritional supplements

In order to counteract the decline in nutrient density, more and more people are turning to nutritional supplements. A meta analysis that im American Journal of Clinical Nutrition It was published that dietary supplements are an effective way to compensate for the lack of vitamins and minerals, especially for population groups with higher needs, such as pregnant or older people. Another study in British Medical Journal emphasized the importance of nutritional supplements in regions in which access to fresh, nutrient -rich fruit and vegetables is restricted.

Solutions: improvement of soil quality and sustainable cultivation

One approach to combat the decline in nutrients is to focus on more sustainable agricultural practices. Regenerative agriculturewhich regenerates the soil through the use of organic fertilizers and change of fruit could improve soil fertility in the long term and thus also the nutrient density. Scientists also call for a return to traditional cultivation methods, in which not only attention is paid to high yields, but also to the quality of the harvest.

The increase in organic food

Another solution is in the increased consumption of Organic food. Studies have shown that organic vegetables and fruits usually have higher nutrient values ​​than conventionally grown products. The reason is the gentler cultivation method and the absence of chemical fertilizers, which favors the natural nutrient absorption of the plants.

Dietary supplements: a necessary compensation

Since the restoration of the soil quality and the changeover to more sustainable cultivation methods require time, are Dietary supplements A short -term solution to meet the nutrient requirements of the population. Supplements are an important measure, especially in regions with nutrient -poor floors or in humans with increased need for certain nutrients (e.g. vitamin D, magnesium or iron).

Individual nutrient analysis

In order to decide which nutrients should be supplemented, experts recommend a Individual nutrient analysis. Modern blood tests make it possible to identify deficiencies at an early stage and to carry out corresponding nutritional supplements or nutritional adjustments.

Future prospects

In the long term, food production could through technological progress such as Hydroponic (Plant cultivation without earth) or Aquaponics (Combination of fish farming and plant cultivation) are improved. These methods enable higher control over the nutrient content and could help to stop the trend of decline in nutrients.

Conclusion

The decline in nutrients in fruit and vegetables is a serious problem that has long -term effects on the health of the population. While sustainabilityProviding a solution to the future are dietary supplements a necessary interim solution to compensate for the current lack of nutrients. Scientifically well -founded measures are essential to ensure that future generations are sufficiently supplied with vital vitamins and minerals.

Sources

• Davis, Dr, Journal of the American College of Nutrition2004.
  Mayer, on, Journal of Horticultural Science2011.
  Hathcock, jn, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition2007.
  Smith, there, British Medical Journal2013.