Climate Change Impact on Nutritional Deficiency
| Climate Change Factor | Impact on Nutrition | Consequences for Health | Vulnerable Groups |
|---|---|---|---|
| Increased Temperature | Reduced crop yields and nutritional quality of staple crops. | – Deficiency in vitamins and minerals (e.g., iron, zinc)- Increased risk of malnutrition | Children, pregnant women, low-income farmers |
| Droughts | Water scarcity affecting crop irrigation and food production. | – Reduced availability of fruits and vegetables- Protein deficiency from livestock loss | Rural and agricultural communities |
| Flooding | Destruction of crops and contamination of food supplies. | – Increased food insecurity- Spread of waterborne diseases impacting nutrient absorption | Coastal and flood-prone populations |
| Soil Degradation | Loss of soil fertility due to erosion and salinization. | – Reduced micronutrient content in crops- Poor dietary diversity | Subsistence farmers, low-income populations |
| Rising CO2 Levels | Reduced protein and micronutrient concentrations in crops. | – Lower iron, zinc, and protein levels in grains like rice and wheat | Populations reliant on staple crops |
| Ecosystem Disruption | Decline in fish stocks and biodiversity loss. | – Reduced access to protein from fish- Omega-3 fatty acid deficiency | Coastal communities, fisherfolk |
| Pests and Diseases | Increased crop pests and diseases affecting yields. | – Food scarcity and reduced dietary options | Farming-dependent populations |
| Economic Disruptions | Higher food prices due to climate impacts on agriculture. | – Limited access to affordable, nutrient-rich food- Greater reliance on low-nutrient staples | Urban poor, marginalized communities |
| Extreme Weather Events | Crop damage and disrupted supply chains. | – Loss of food variety- Increased risk of malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies | Disaster-affected populations |
| Water Scarcity | Limited access to clean water for agriculture and personal use. | – Decreased crop productivity- Poor hygiene leading to gastrointestinal issues | Arid regions, developing countries |
This table outlines the direct and indirect ways climate change exacerbates nutritional deficiencies and their broader implications for health, particularly among vulnerable populations.
