People often prioritise convenience over essential nutrients in today’s busy environments, leading to a high risk of micronutrient deficiencies. There is an unlimited number of food choices available for urban adults, yet they quietly face a severe health crisis. They are generally not considered a serious problem, and this causes the condition to be severe or chronic.
Micronutrients are an important factor in physiological functions, energy production, and overall well-being. Lacking any of them in excess will alter the body’s balance and will cause a lot of health problems. We spoke to , who explained the dangers of micronutrient deficiency in urban adults.
According to the Indian Journal of Medical Research (IJMR), micronutrients play an important role in the proper growth and development of the human body, and their deficiency affects the health, contributing to low productivity and a vicious cycle of malnutrition, underdevelopment and poverty. Micronutrient deficiency is a public health problem affecting more than one-fourth of the global population.
“Due to a busy lifestyle, urban adults mostly rely on processed and packaged food, follow irregular eating habits, and avoid consuming fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, contributing to insufficient micronutrient intake. There is excess consumption of carbohydrates and fats, but essentials like vitamin D, calcium, and iron are neglected,” said Sunil.
The most common deficiency among these is vitamin D. Even though living in sunny cities, most adults spend most of their time indoors. The lack of vitamin D production in the skin due to pollution, sedentary life, and sunscreen use leads to muscle aches, osteoporosis, low energy, and low immunity. Another common problem is iron deficiency, especially among menstruating women. The main symptoms of this include tiredness, headache, and poor concentration, and not treating them may result in severe cases, such as anaemia.
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"Another noticeable deficiency is Vitamin B12, which occurs among individuals who follow a plant-based diet. Vitamin B12 deficiency may result in neurological damage and memory loss. Having enough calcium and magnesium is necessary to promote bone health and healthy nerve functioning, and these minerals cannot be found in the diets followed by adults, who avoid consuming dairy, leafy vegetables, and nuts," explained Sunil.
The critical thing is that the symptoms of the lack of micronutrients may resemble other conditions, such as fatigue and stress, which makes it difficult to diagnose the condition earlier. Recurrent infections, fatigue, hair loss, and poor wound healing are mostly considered part of a busier urban lifestyle. Avoiding timely medical treatment can lead to severe, long-term complications, such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and increased vulnerability to chronic diseases.
“Currently, many urban diets are without proper guidance, which can lead to inadequate nutrient intake. Additionally, urban lifestyles often involve excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and stress, which can impair nutrient absorption and metabolism,” added Sunil.
Also, in the current scenario, many urban adults engage in intermittent fasting or any other weight-loss diets with no proper guidance, which can further lead to the body receiving fewer nutrients. Excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and stress, which are highly active in urban settings, can also reduce nutrient absorption and metabolism.
Having a nutritional deficiency requires a proper approach. Awareness and dietary programs are crucial to encourage the consumption of balanced meals rich in whole, unprocessed foods. Hence, you should refrain from taking medications without a prescription, as it can worsen the already existing conditions. A medical examination and professional guidance are essential before taking any medications.
Sunil concluded, “Urban life is not necessarily a direct cause of malnutrition. Preventing or treating micronutrient deficiency involves adopting habits, such as regular exercise, mindful eating, and adequate sun exposure. Ignoring this issue can lead to severe health problems. Recognising micronutrient deficiencies is crucial for prevention and promoting a healthier lifestyle.”
[ This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]
