While undernutrition is generally associated with a lack of proper nutrition, health experts on Monday contended it is also an increasing risk factor for obesity and diabetes.
According to UNICEF, in 2025, the global prevalence of obesity among school-age children and adolescents exceeded underweight for the first time.
The UN agency’s Child Nutrition Report revealed how unhealthy food environments are contributing to the worldwide surge in overweight and obesity in children and adolescents.
“When we think of undernutrition, we usually picture thin children or adults who haven’t grown properly. But in today’s world, undernutrition can also lead to obesity. People from poorer backgrounds, with less awareness, often end up buying cheap foods and drinks that are high in sugar and fat but low in nutrition,” Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman, Scientific Committee, IMA Cochin, told IANS.
“Sugary soft drinks, are heavily advertised by celebrities and sold cheaply, yet they fuel obesity and diabetes. Unlike relatively educated individuals who might consume water and a balanced diet complete with protein, fibre, fruits and vegetables, these individuals opt for sugary, sugar-sweetened beverages, calorie-dense oil-fried snacks and packaged foods which are relatively cheap,” he added.
This can be seen in a recent study where Indian researchers looked at a rat model of undernutrition over 50 generations, closely mimicking human populations in developing countries.
The findings revealed that undernourished rats display metabolic abnormalities associated with epigenetic changes, which are not reversed following unrestricted access to normal chow in two subsequent generations. (PTI)
