Nanotechnology Continues To Help Cut Malnutrition Rates

Nanotechnology  

⯀ Poverty and malnutrition rates have declined all across the globe as a result of world leaders' efforts and recent advancements in food technology. China, in particular has impressive statistics with poverty rates down to 2% from a high of 88%. Good nutrition is one of the most important factors in life and it’s great that the nation, with the assistance of science, are taking steps to look after their bodies and mind. Pioneering nanotechnology has helped to support the growth of food, while many individuals are turning to the latest gadgets and pieces of technology to keep healthy, and it’s proving to be an effective tool.

Cutting malnutrition and poverty rates

In 1990, the United Nations set a target of reducing the world’s poverty rate in half within 25 years. Impressively, this goal was met in 2010, five years ahead of schedule. Thankfully, malnutrition rates are decreasing rapidly too, due to continuous research into nanotechnology being conducted. In India, scientists are working hard to make ready to use therapeutic food (RUTF) more appealing to malnourished children who struggle to consume the thick paste made from peanut butter. Chemical engineers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology are using nanotechnology to create a milkshake-like product with homogenized ingredients which they are hoping will achieve government approval so that it can be utilized by youngsters in India and beyond who are impacted by the effects of malnourishment.

GMO and nano foods

It’s beneficial to consume GM foods when you’re living in an area where certain vitamin deficiencies and diseases are high. In these instances, a GM diet will give you the best chance of avoiding and fighting diseases which could otherwise impact your long-term health. The Royal Society states that ‘GM is a technology that involves inserting DNA into the genome of an organism.’ With this in mind, crops of food genetically modified can sustain the impact of poor weather conditions and pest infestations, ensuring that there is enough produce available to feed those in need. It’s important people understand the importance of good nutrition and encouraging the consumption of GM and nano foods is a great way of educating individuals on nutritious food and will help to improve their body, mind and overall fitness levels.

Additional supplements

Many people think that if they eat and drink well and get adequate exercise then they don’t need to take additional supplements to stay healthy. However, by taking supplements you can be sure that your body is getting all the goodness it requires all year round. Vitamin D is needed to keep the bones within the body functioning. Most individuals get the majority of their vitamin D from exposure to the sun, but, in parts of the world where there is limited sunshine, it can be difficult to get as much of this important vitamin as is required. Supplements produced using nanotechnology are readily available in the US, with a study conducted by William B. Schultz and Lisa Barclay revealing there are currently more than 40 dietary supplements which contain nanoscale ingredients on the market. A daily dose of vitamin supplements is also a great way to unwind and relax your body and restore your brain function after a hectic day.

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The future of humanity

With claims that nanotechnology could sustain the shelf life of food and make it healthier and more delicious, there is great support for the use of it. Of course, there will always be people that oppose ‘playing around’ with food, however, the effects it has had on reducing malnourishment around the world and, in particular in third world countries is impressive. In addition to this, with science and technology developing at an astounding rate, it looks like nanotechnology could help to alleviate the world of poor nutrition even further over the coming years.

Nanotechnology has significantly helped to improve malnutrition and poverty rates and it looks set to further enhance the lives of those living in third world countries. Everyone needs to eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet for the sake of their overall health and this can be achieved with GM and nano foods and by taking a daily dose of supplements.

By  Jane Hooper
Jane is a freelance writer and editor. She is particularly interested in looking at ways to boost intellect, delay mental aging and live longer.