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Marrero A, Nicoson C, Kelahan H, Mendoza K, Salvia M, Golden C, Mattei J. Equity as a priority in EAT-Lancet-aligned food system transformations. NATURE FOOD 2024:10.1038/s43016-024-01047-1. [PMID: 39354117 DOI: 10.1038/s43016-024-01047-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 10/03/2024]
Abstract
Food systems drive human and environmental change, reflect diverse cultural and ecological contexts, and, in their diversity, can bolster nutrition and planetary health. Ignoring structural inequities in food system transformations risks offsetting potential gains. We summarize current evidence on the context-dependent implications of EAT-Lancet goals and propose six priority areas to guide equitable food system transformations, targeting food and nutrition security, just sustainability and cultural diversity. Priority areas-namely, diverse and nutritious food access, food industry regulation, climate-resilient food production, localized, small-scale food systems, cultural diversity and social well-being-can be achieved through public, private and civil society action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abrania Marrero
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christie Nicoson
- Department of Political Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Heather Kelahan
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenny Mendoza
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Meg Salvia
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher Golden
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Josiemer Mattei
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
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2
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Donini LM, Berry EM. Improving adherence to the Mediterranean Diet through a bio-psycho social and sociotype approach. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1232078. [PMID: 37799764 PMCID: PMC10548229 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1232078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo M. Donini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Food Science and Human Nutrition Research Unit, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elliot M. Berry
- Braun School of Public Health, Hadassah Medical School, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
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3
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Lares-Michel M, Reyes-Castillo Z, Housni FE. Towards the characterisation of sustainable diet's gut microbiota composition and functions: A narrative review. GUT MICROBIOME (CAMBRIDGE, ENGLAND) 2023; 4:e15. [PMID: 39295901 PMCID: PMC11406369 DOI: 10.1017/gmb.2023.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2024]
Abstract
The gut microbiome is a key element for health preservation and disease prevention. Nevertheless, defining a healthy gut microbiome is complex since it is modulated by several factors, such as host genetics, sex, age, geographical zone, drug use, and, especially, diet. Although a healthy diet has proven to increase microbial alpha and beta diversity and to promote the proliferation of health-related bacteria, considering the current environmental and nutritional crisis, such as climate change, water shortage, loss of diversity, and the obesity pandemic, it should be highlighted that a healthy diet is not always sustainable. Sustainable diets are dietary patterns that promote all dimensions of people's health and well-being while exerting low pressure on the environment, and being accessible, affordable, safe, equitable, and culturally acceptable. Examples of diets that tend to be sustainable are the Planetary Health Diet of the EAT-Lancet Commission or territorial diets such as the Mediterranean and the Traditional Mexican diet (milpa diet), adapted to specific contexts. These diets are principally plant-based but include small or moderate amounts of animal-based foods. Characterising the effects of sustainable diets on gut microbiota is urgent to ensure that the benefits for human health are aligned with environmental preservation and respect the sociocultural aspects of individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Lares-Michel
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "José Mataix Verdú", Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Avenida del Conocimiento S/N, Parque Tecnológico de la Salud, Armilla, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Comportamiento Alimentario y Nutrición (IICAN), Centro Universitario del Sur, Universidad de Guadalajara, Av. Enrique Arreola Silva 883, Col. Centro. 49000, Cd. Guzmán, Jalisco, México
| | - Zyanya Reyes-Castillo
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Comportamiento Alimentario y Nutrición (IICAN), Centro Universitario del Sur, Universidad de Guadalajara, Av. Enrique Arreola Silva 883, Col. Centro. 49000, Cd. Guzmán, Jalisco, México
| | - Fatima Ezzahra Housni
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Comportamiento Alimentario y Nutrición (IICAN), Centro Universitario del Sur, Universidad de Guadalajara, Av. Enrique Arreola Silva 883, Col. Centro. 49000, Cd. Guzmán, Jalisco, México
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Bordoni A. Insight into the Sustainability of the Mediterranean Diet: The Water Footprint of the Recommended Italian Diet. Nutrients 2023; 15:2204. [PMID: 37432353 DOI: 10.3390/nu15092204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
At present, as we face climate change and natural resource scarcity, one of the major challenges linking humans and the environment is to ensure sufficient, nutritious, safe, and affordable food for a rapidly growing world population. In a nutshell, "feed the world without destroying it". The water footprint (WF), i.e., the withdrawals of fresh water necessary to produce one kilogram of food product, is one of the key indicators of the environmental impact of diets. In this work, the WF of the food patterns suggested by the Italian Food Based Dietary Guidelines, considered a model of the Mediterranean Diet, was evaluated for the first time. The data reported here clearly demonstrate that the suggested Italian dietary patterns have a low WF, the reduction of which by replacing animal foods with plant foods is limited because the suggested consumption of meat is already low. Consumer choice in the consumption of specific products within a food group could further reduce the WF of the diet, underlining the need to provide correct information not only to consumers but also to farmers and producers to encourage them to make water-saving choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Bordoni
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), University of Bologna, Piazza Goidanich 60, 47521 Cesena, FC, Italy
- Interdepartmental Centre for Industrial Agri-Food Research (CIRI), University of Bologna, Via Quinto Bucci 336, 47521 Cesena, FC, Italy
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Nomura M, Yamaguchi M, Inada Y, Nishi N. Current dietary intake of the Japanese population in reference to the planetary health diet-preliminary assessment. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1116105. [PMID: 37077901 PMCID: PMC10106588 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1116105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction We sought to assess the Japanese diet by examining the current dietary intake in Japan using the global reference diet from the EAT-Lancet Commission (Planetary Health Diet; PHD), from the perspective of protein intake in different age groups. Methods Average dietary intake by food group in the Japan National Health and Nutrition Survey 2019 (NHNS 2019) was converted to the PHD food groups, and the diet gap (DG) (%) of the global reference of the PHD was calculated by age group. Results Although the DG of the intake was excessive compared with the global reference of the PHD in most food groups in all age groups (7.1-416%), the intake exceeded the upper limit of the range only for red meat (640%). Red meat had the highest DG among subjects in their 40s, although the DG decreased with increasing age. Protein intake was within the possible range and did not greatly exceed the recommended dietary intake in the Japanese standard. Discussion The current Japanese diet contains an excessive intake of red meat in terms of the global reference of the PHD. This trend is similar to that previously reported in various western regions and countries. However, the Japanese diet does not significantly exceed the recommended protein intake for Japanese people, suggesting that the PHD is an environmentally friendly and healthy choice for younger and older age groups in an aging Japanese society. Policy makers need to develop sustainable and healthy food-based dietary guidelines in addition to providing food and nutrition education and developing a food environment that encourages sustainable and healthy choices to support dietary change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marika Nomura
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- International Center for Nutrition and Information, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Osaka, Japan
- Human Development Department, Japan International Cooperation Agency, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miwa Yamaguchi
- International Center for Nutrition and Information, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuji Inada
- The African Union Development Agency, New Partnership for Africa’s Development, Midland, South Africa
| | - Nobuo Nishi
- International Center for Nutrition and Information, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Osaka, Japan
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Díaz-Méndez C, Ramos-Truchero G. From the economic crisis to the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain: The challenges for healthy eating in times of crisis. Int J Gastron Food Sci 2023; 31:100655. [PMID: 36624892 PMCID: PMC9812464 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgfs.2022.100655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Lifestyle Risk Factors for Overweight/Obesity in Spanish Children. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9121947. [PMID: 36553390 PMCID: PMC9777298 DOI: 10.3390/children9121947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Childhood obesity is one of the main public health concerns in Europe. The aim was to identify possible risk factors associated with overweight/obesity in Spanish preschool and school-age children. The sample (1075 (50.7% girls) children aged 3 to 12) is part of the project 'Alimentando el Cambio' whose objective is to promote healthy lifestyles in schools. Child height and weight were measured, and parents filled out questionnaires related to the children's lifestyle. There was a positive and significant association between sweetened beverage consumption and body mass index (BMI) z-score in both sexes and age groups. There was a negative and significant association between BMI z-score and dairy products in girls of both age groups. There was also a protective effect of regular nut consumption on overweight/obesity in girls 6-12 y. Night-time sleep during weekdays showed a negative association with BMI z-score for older boys and girls. A positive and significant association was found between total screen time and BMI z-score during weekdays. Regarding emotional well-being and self-esteem, having girls 6-12 y laughing and feeling happy and good about themselves in the last week was a protective factor against overweight/obesity. Childhood obesity prevention efforts may benefit from targeting these key risk factors.
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Koeder C, Perez-Cueto FJA. Vegan nutrition: a preliminary guide for health professionals. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 64:670-707. [PMID: 35959711 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2107997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Since the beginning of the 21st century, interest in vegan diets has been rapidly increasing in most countries. Misconceptions about vegan diets are widespread among the general population and health professionals. Vegan diets can be health-promoting and may offer certain important advantages compared to typical Western (and other mainstream) eating patterns. However, adequate dietary sources/supplements of nutrients of focus specific to vegan diets should be identified and communicated. Without supplements/fortified foods, severe vitamin B12 deficiency may occur. Other potential nutrients of focus are calcium, vitamin D, iodine, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc, selenium, vitamin A, and protein. Ensuring adequate nutrient status is particularly important during pregnancy, lactation, infancy, and childhood. Health professionals are often expected to be able to provide advice on the topic of vegan nutrition, but a precise and practical vegan nutrition guide for health professionals is lacking. Consequently, it is important and urgent to provide such a set of dietary recommendations. It is the aim of this article to provide vegan nutrition guidelines, based on current evidence, which can easily be communicated to vegan patients/clients, with the goal of ensuring adequate nutrient status in vegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Koeder
- Institute of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Leibniz University Hanover, Hanover, Germany
- Department of Nutrition, University of Applied Sciences Münster, Münster, Germany
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9
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Bôto JM, Rocha A, Miguéis V, Meireles M, Neto B. Sustainability Dimensions of the Mediterranean Diet: A Systematic Review of the Indicators Used and Its Results. Adv Nutr 2022; 13:2015-2038. [PMID: 35679078 PMCID: PMC9526822 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmac066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The concern about sustainability is growing and the Mediterranean diet has been extensively identified as a promising model, with benefits for human and environmental health. This systematic review aims to identify and describe the indicators that have been used to evaluate the sustainability of the Mediterranean diet and the results from their application. A methodology using PRISMA guidelines was followed, and searches were performed in Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and GreenFile. A total of 32 studies assessing the sustainability of the Mediterranean diet were identified. Twenty-five of these studies quantified the environmental impact, 7 studies evaluated the nutritional quality, and 12 studies assessed the daily cost of this dietary pattern. A total of 33 distinct indicators were identified, of which 10 were used to assess the environmental dimension (mainly, carbon, water, and ecological footprint), 8 were used to assess the nutritional dimension (mainly Health score and Nutrient Rich Food Index), 1 was used to assess the economic dimension (dietary cost), and 8 used combined indicators. The remaining 6 indicators for the assessment of sociocultural dimension were only identified in 1 study but were not measured. The Mediterranean diet had a lower environmental impact than Western diets and showed a carbon footprint between 0.9 and 6.88 kg CO2/d per capita, a water footprint between 600 and 5280 m3/d per capita, and an ecological footprint between 2.8 and 53.42 m2/d per capita. With regard to the nutritional dimension, the Mediterranean diet had a high nutritional quality and obtained 122 points on the Health score and ranged between 12.95 and 90.6 points on the Nutrient Rich Food Index. The cost of the Mediterranean diet is similar to other diets and varied between 3.33 and 14.42€/d per capita. These findings show that no uniformity in assessing the MDiet's sustainability exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Margarida Bôto
- GreenUPorto—Sustainable Agrifood Production Research Centre/Inov4Agro, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal,Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal,LEPABE (Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal,InescTec (Institute of Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ada Rocha
- GreenUPorto—Sustainable Agrifood Production Research Centre/Inov4Agro, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Vera Miguéis
- InescTec (Institute of Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuela Meireles
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
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10
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De Cosmi V, Mazzocchi A, Milani GP, Agostoni C. Dietary Patterns vs. Dietary Recommendations. Front Nutr 2022; 9:883806. [PMID: 35592632 PMCID: PMC9113217 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.883806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Dietary Reference Values (DRVs) are important for developing labeling laws, identifying populations at risk of over- or under-consumption, and promoting public health interventions. However, the process of developing DRVs is quite complex, and they should not be viewed as recommendations ready to use or goals for individuals. Rather, they require interpretation by professionals and can form the basis of dietary advice. On the other hand, focusing on foods rather than macronutrients can assist individuals in understanding a healthy diet by taking into consideration many variables that may help compliance with a healthy dietary style. Evolution, tradition within specific geographical and historical contexts, taste, economic affordability, season-associated local dietary resources, and lifestyle may all explain the increasing popularity of dietary patterns that are highly successful today. Three models (the Mediterranean, New Nordic, and Japanese) have been recently characterized for geographical setting and food composition, as well as the associated lifestyle. Of note, all these three models rely on pyramids sharing a large basis made up of local vegetal resources and a top of red meats (allowed in many cases, but in limited amounts), thus allowing for the urgent demand of sustainability for the planet's health. This mini-review aimed to summarize the meaning of DRVs and to describe the dietary patterns that better contemplate health, diet diversity, and sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina De Cosmi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Mazzocchi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Alessandra Mazzocchi
| | - Gregorio P. Milani
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
- Pediatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Agostoni
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
- Pediatric Intermediate Care Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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Naja F, Ismail LC, Abbas N, Saleh S, Ali HI. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet and its association with environmental footprints among women of childbearing age in the United Arab Emirates. Eur J Nutr 2022; 61:2585-2599. [PMID: 35229167 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-022-02835-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the association of adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MD) with Environmental Footprints (EFPs) among women of childbearing age in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). METHODS Data belonging to a nationally representative sample of 482 women (19-50 years) were derived from a previous survey in the UAE. In face-to-face interviews, participants completed questionnaires addressing sociodemographic, physical activity, and dietary intake characteristics; the latter assessed using a multiple pass 24-h recall. The composite Mediterranean (c-MED) index was used to examine the adherence to the MD. Metrics for the EFPs (water use, energy use, and GHG emissions) were calculated using Life Cycle Analyses. Descriptive statistics and linear regressions were used in data analysis. RESULTS In the study sample, the distribution of the c-MED scores was skewed to the right, indicating a low adherence to the MD. The lowest contributions to the total c-MED score were observed for legumes (2.9%) and olive oil (1.8%). The EFPs associated with food consumption per 1000 kcal were: water use: 1256.89 ± 544.95 L/day; energy use: 18.01 ± 7.85 MJ/day, and GHG: 2.46 ± 1.46 kg CO2 eq/day. After adjustment for age, energy intake, and potential confounders, being adherent to the MD was associated with 540.57 [95% CI (- 726.6; - 354.54)] units decrease in water use and 0.94 units decrease in GHG emissions [95% CI (- 1.45; - 0.43)]. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study revealed an inverse association between adherence to the MD and EFPs. As such, the MD may represent a promising dietary strategy to improve health outcomes and reduce the environmental impact. Public health programs addressing the low adherence to the MD among women of childbearing age in the UAE are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Naja
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Leila Cheikh Ismail
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nada Abbas
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sheima Saleh
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Habiba I Ali
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
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12
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Barbour L, Bicknell E, Brimblecombe J, Carino S, Fairweather M, Lawrence M, Slattery J, Woods J, World E. Dietitians Australia position statement on healthy and sustainable diets. Nutr Diet 2022; 79:6-27. [PMID: 35233909 PMCID: PMC9311218 DOI: 10.1111/1747-0080.12726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
It is the position of Dietitians Australia that to promote human and planetary health, a food system transformation is needed that enables the population to adopt healthy and sustainable diet-related practices. A healthy and sustainable diet must (i) be nutritionally adequate, healthy and safe, (ii) have low environmental impact and be protective of natural resources and biodiversity, (iii) be culturally acceptable and (iv) be accessible, economically fair and affordable. Dietitians Australia acknowledges that it is critical to prioritise Indigenous knowledges in consultation, policy-making and implementation processes to achieve these recommendations. In facilitating the uptake of healthy and sustainable diets, dietitians are contributing to the transformation of our current food system that is urgently required to nourish present and future generations within planetary boundaries. In developing this position statement, opportunities for future research have been identified including those to advance the professions' capacity to improve environmental sustainability outcomes across all areas of practice. To achieve a population-level shift towards this diet, Dietitians Australia recommends: (i) the development of a National Food and Nutrition Strategy which honours Indigenous knowledges on food systems, (ii) the integration of sustainability principles in Australia's dietary guidelines, (iii) the reorientation of our food environment to prioritise access to healthy and sustainable foods, and (iv) investment in capacity building activities to equip the current and future nutrition and dietetics workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza Barbour
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics & FoodMonash UniversityNotting HillVictoriaAustralia
| | | | - Julie Brimblecombe
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics & FoodMonash UniversityNotting HillVictoriaAustralia
| | - Stefanie Carino
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics & FoodMonash UniversityNotting HillVictoriaAustralia
| | | | - Mark Lawrence
- Deakin UniversityInstitute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition SciencesGeelongAustralia
| | | | - Julie Woods
- Deakin UniversityInstitute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition SciencesGeelongAustralia
| | - Elizabeth World
- Dietitians AustraliaDeakinAustralian Capital TerritoryAustralia
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Dave LA, Hodgkinson SM, Roy NC, Smith NW, McNabb WC. The role of holistic nutritional properties of diets in the assessment of food system and dietary sustainability. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2021:1-21. [PMID: 34933622 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2021.2012753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Advancing sustainable diets for nutrition security and sustainable development necessitates clear nutrition metrics for measuring nutritional quality of diets. Food composition, nutrient requirements, and dietary intake are among the most common nutrition metrics used in the current assessment of sustainable diets. Broadly, most studies in the area classify animal-source foods (ASF) as having a substantially higher environmental footprint in comparison to plant-source foods (PSF). As a result, much of the current dietary advice promulgates diets containing higher proportions of PSF. However, this generalization is misleading since most of these studies do not distinguish between the gross and bioavailable nutrient fractions in mixed human diets. The bioavailability of essential nutrients including β-carotene, vitamin B-12, iron, zinc, calcium, and indispensable amino acids varies greatly across different diets. The failure to consider bioavailability in sustainability measurements undermines the complementary role that ASF play in achieving nutrition security in vulnerable populations. This article critically reviews the scientific evidence on the holistic nutritional quality of diets and identifies methodological problems that exist in the way the nutritional quality of diets is measured. Finally, we discuss the importance of developing nutrient bioavailability as a requisite nutrition metric to contextualize the environmental impacts of different diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmi A Dave
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,Sustainable Nutrition Initiative, Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | | | - Nicole C Roy
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,Department of Human Nutrition, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.,High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Nick W Smith
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,Sustainable Nutrition Initiative, Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Warren C McNabb
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,Sustainable Nutrition Initiative, Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge, Auckland, New Zealand
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14
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Moreno LA, Meyer R, Donovan SM, Goulet O, Haines J, Kok FJ, van't Veer P. Perspective: Striking a Balance between Planetary and Human Health: Is There a Path Forward? Adv Nutr 2021; 13:S2161-8313(22)00067-9. [PMID: 34849542 PMCID: PMC8970843 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmab139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The global adoption of predominantly plant-based sustainable healthy diets will help reduce the risk of obesity- and malnutrition-related non-communicable diseases while protecting the future health of our planet. This review examines the benefits and limitations of different types of plant-based diets in terms of health and nutrition, affordability and accessibility, cultural (ethical and religious) acceptability, and the environment (i.e., the four pillars underlying sustainable healthy diets). Results suggest that, without professional supervision, traditional plant-based diets (vegan, vegetarian and pescatarian diets) can increase the risk of nutritional deficiencies among infants, children/adolescents, adult females, pregnant/lactating women and the elderly. In contrast, flexitarian diets and territorial diversified diets (TDDs, e.g., Mediterranean and New Nordic diets) that include large quantities of plant-sourced foods, low levels of red meat and moderate amounts of poultry, fish, eggs and dairy can meet the energy and nutrition needs of different populations without the need for dietary education or supplementation. Compared to vegan, vegetarian and pescatarian diets, more diverse flexitarian diets and TDDs are associated with reduced volumes of food waste and may be more acceptable and easier to maintain for people who previously followed western diets. Although flexitarian diets and TDDs have a greater impact on the environment than vegan, vegetarian and pescatarian diets, the negative effects are considerably reduced compared to western diets, especially if diets include locally-sourced seasonal foods. Further studies are required to define more precisely optimal sustainable healthy diets for different populations and to ensure that diets are affordable and accessible to people in all countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rosan Meyer
- Department of Pediatrics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sharon M Donovan
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Olivier Goulet
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology-Hepatology-Nutrition, University Hospital Necker-Enfants Malades, University Paris-Centre, Paris, France
| | - Jess Haines
- Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Frans J Kok
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter van't Veer
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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15
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Mazzocchi A, De Cosmi V, Scaglioni S, Agostoni C. Towards a More Sustainable Nutrition: Complementary Feeding and Early Taste Experiences as a Basis for Future Food Choices. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13082695. [PMID: 34444855 PMCID: PMC8398974 DOI: 10.3390/nu13082695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of sustainable nutrition considers different fields: from human health to environmental, economic and socio-cultural aspects. Currently, in Europe, the diets that reflect the assumptions of the sustainable diet are the Mediterranean Diet and the New Nordic Diet. They both encourage the consumption of vegetable, organic and minimally processed foods, as well as regional, seasonal and Fair-Trade products, reducing the ecological impact of the production chain. These eating habits could be established starting from the prenatal period and from infancy during the complementary feeding stage, aiding children to accept of a more variable diet in terms of flavor, taste and texture. In particular, the positive parental role model is an effective method for improving a child’s diet and behaviors. Two healthy plates representing a sustainable diet in early infancy, at 6 and 24 months, are here proposed, in line with the “Planetary Health Diet” approved by the EAT-Lancet Commission. Our work aims to highlight how a sustainable diet is possible since infancy, since the introduction of solid foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Mazzocchi
- Pediatric Intermediate Care Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Valentina De Cosmi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Silvia Scaglioni
- Fondazione De Marchi, Department of Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Carlo Agostoni
- Pediatric Intermediate Care Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy;
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-02-55032497
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Vanham D, Guenther S, Ros-Baró M, Bach-Faig A. Which diet has the lower water footprint in Mediterranean countries? RESOURCES, CONSERVATION, AND RECYCLING 2021; 171:105631. [PMID: 34345116 PMCID: PMC8216694 DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2021.105631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The Mediterranean region is increasingly water scarce, with the food system being the largest driver of water use. We calculate the water resources related to food consumption in nine major Mediterranean countries, by means of the water footprint (WF), for the existing situation (period 2011-2013) as well as the Mediterranean and EAT-Lancet diets. We account for different food intake requirements according to gender and six age groups. These nine countries - Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco - represent 88% of the population of all countries bordering the Mediterranean. As first major observation, we find that the EAT-Lancet diet, a scientifically optimised diet for both nutrition and certain environmental indicators, requires less water resources than the Mediterranean diet, a culturally accepted diet within the region. In terms of water resources use, adherence to the former is thus more beneficial than adherence to the latter. As second major observation, we find that the EAT-Lancet diet reduces the current WF for all nations consistently, within the range -17% to -48%, whereas the Mediterranean diet reduces the WF of the European countries, Turkey, Egypt and Morocco within the range of -4% to -35%. For the Maghreb countries Tunisia and Algeria, the Mediterranean diet WF is slightly higher compared to the current WF and the proportions of food product groups differ. Such dietary shifts would be important parts of the solution to obtain the sustainable use of water resources in Mediterranean countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davy Vanham
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | | | - Marta Ros-Baró
- FoodLab Research Group (2017SGR 83), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (Open University of Catalonia, UOC), 08018 Barcelona, Spain
- Food and Nutrition Area, Barcelona Official College of Pharmacists, 08009 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Bach-Faig
- FoodLab Research Group (2017SGR 83), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (Open University of Catalonia, UOC), 08018 Barcelona, Spain
- Food and Nutrition Area, Barcelona Official College of Pharmacists, 08009 Barcelona, Spain
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17
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Lartey A, Branca F. Editorial. Food Nutr Bull 2020; 41:3S-6S. [PMID: 33356589 DOI: 10.1177/0379572120977222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lartey
- Director, Food and Nutrition Division, Food and Agriculture Organization Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Branca
- Director, Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, World Health Organization Geneva, Switzerland
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18
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Abstract
Sustainable healthy diets are high on the research and policy agendas. One of the crucial resources to provide such diets are water resources. This paper provides a brief overview of the current research state regarding this topic, with a focus on the water footprint concept, as latter quantifies water use along a supply chain. The water footprint (WF) quantifies blue and green water consumption, as both these water resources are essential for food and energy production as well as for the environment. Different kinds of information are embedded in a dietary WF and different data sources and modelling approaches exist, leading to WF dietary amounts that are not always directly comparable. A full sustainability assessment of a dietary WF encompasses three components: (1) an equity assessment of the total WF amount; (2) an efficiency assessment for each food item in the diet as well as (3) an impact assessment (blue water stress and green water scarcity) for each food item in the diet. The paper concludes with an outlook on future research on the topic, listing the following points: (1) future clarity in system boundary and modelling assumptions, with comparison of results between different approaches; (2) full sustainability assessments including all three components; (3) dietary footprint family assessments with the WF as one member; (4) WF assessments for multiple dietary regimes with support to the development of local dietary guidelines and (5) assessment of the synergies with LCA-based mid-point (scarcity-weighted WF) and end-point (especially human health) indicators and evaluation of the validity and empirical significance of these two indicators
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