English
English
English
Researchers say that while lifestyle and dietary imbalances are the primary causes of weight gain, several other conditions have also been identified that can be significant risk factors. Recent studies suggest that climate change is also contributing to the rise in weight gain, which everyone needs to be aware of.
Representational Image
New Delhi: Overweight and obesity have long been considered a major health threat, affecting people of all ages. Studies show that poor eating habits, stress, a busy schedule, and insufficient physical activity are the main factors contributing to obesity.
Obesity not only harms the appearance of the body but also significantly increases the risk of problems like diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure, and fatty liver.
Researchers say that while lifestyle and dietary imbalances are the primary causes of weight gain, several other conditions have also been identified that can be significant risk factors.
Recent studies suggest that climate change is also contributing to the rise in weight gain, which everyone needs to be aware of.
If you've gained a few pounds in recent years, it's possible that this could be a result of climate change.
Impact of Carbon Dioxide on Food
Recent research by scientists in the Netherlands has found that rising atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels are making important crops like rice and barley more calorie-rich and less nutritious.
CO2 increases calorie content by enhancing photosynthesis, leading to higher sugar and starch content in crops. Furthermore, it has also been shown to reduce the protein and nutrient content of grains, making the food you eat high-calorie and low-nutrition, which can directly contribute to weight gain.
A team of experts from Leiden University in the Netherlands has warned of "widespread changes in the nutritional content" of popular food plants. The experts stated, "Even if food security remains adequate, the nutrient security of these foods is at risk."
Food is becoming more calorie-dense and less nutritious. As a result, climate change is increasing the risk of obesity, weakened immune systems, and chronic diseases in humans.
What did the study find?
To understand the impact of climate change on food and its health implications, a team of scientists analyzed reports on crops grown at different CO2 levels. A total of 43 edible crops, including rice, barley, potatoes, tomatoes, wheat, soybeans, and peanuts, were studied.
Experts found that crops grown in areas with high CO2 levels were adversely affected by nutritional values. These crops typically experienced a 4.4% reduction in essential nutrients like zinc, iron, and protein, with some experiencing a 38% reduction. Zinc found in chickpeas was the most affected, while wheat and rice were also affected.
The Growing Obesity Crisis
The team warned that rice is the staple food for more than half the world's population, and the rest depends on wheat. Both of these crops exhibit significant deficiencies in essential nutrients like protein, zinc, and iron. Additionally, the calorie content of each sample is increasing, indicating that obesity levels are increasing compared to before these foods were consumed.
Experts say that if corrective measures are not taken in this direction, the food will become unsafe and we may become vulnerable to various diseases.
