Global dimensions and dynamics of the nutrition transition

Abstract

Two historic processes of change occur simultaneously with or precede the nutrition transition. One is the demographic transition -- the shift from a pattern of high fertility and mortality to one of low fertility and mortality (typical of modern industrialised countries). The second is the epidemiological transition: the shift from a pattern of high prevalence of infectious disease associated with malnutrition periodic famine and poor environmental sanitation to one of high prevalence of chronic and degenerative disease associated with urban-industrial lifestyles. The nutrition transition is closely related to the other two transitions. In particular in the last one or two decades of the 20th century large shifts have occurred in diet and in physical activity patterns. Modern societies seem to be converging on a diet high in saturated fats sugar refined foods low in fibre -- often termed the Western diet -- and on lifestyles characterised by lower levels of activity. These changes are reflected in nutritional outcomes such as changes in average stature body composition and morbidity. (excerpt)