Malnutrition, a silent epidemic, continues to plague the world, affecting millions of people across all age groups.
Image: Alex P/Pexels
Malnutrition, a silent epidemic, continues to plague the world, affecting millions of people across all age groups.
In South Africa, a country known for its rich diversity and vibrant culture, malnutrition is a growing concern that reflects stark inequalities within the nation. While some grapple with hunger and undernutrition, others face the opposite end of the spectrum: obesity and diet-related chronic diseases.
The World Health Organization’s (WHO) latest commitments announced at the Nutrition for Growth (N4G) Summit offer a glimmer of hope for addressing these challenges, but what does this mean for South Africans?
Let’s unpack the issue and explore how these global initiatives could shape a healthier future for our nation.
The double burden of malnutrition
South Africa is no stranger to malnutrition. The country faces a "double burden", a coexistence of undernutrition and obesity within the same population, households, and sometimes even individuals.
According to the South African Demographic and Health Survey (SADHS), 27% of children under five years old suffer from stunting (chronic malnutrition), while 68% of women and 31% of men are overweight or obese.
This troubling reality highlights the urgent need to address both ends of the malnutrition spectrum.
The WHO’s report reveals that globally, 148 million children under five are stunted, and 2.5 billion adults are overweight, including nearly 890 million with obesity.
South Africa mirrors these alarming statistics, with low-income communities disproportionately affected by undernutrition due to inadequate access to nutritious food, while urban populations struggle with rising obesity rates fuelled by ultra-processed food consumption and sedentary lifestyles.
The rise of ultra-processed foods in South Africa has contributed to alarming obesity rates. The WHO’s initiative to provide updated guidance on ultra-processed food consumption and optimal animal-source foods tailored to specific populations could help South Africans make more informed dietary choices
Image: Anete Lusina /pexels
WHO’s commitment to tackling malnutrition
The WHO has made commitments across eight critical areas to provide a comprehensive framework for combating malnutrition. Some of these commitments align with the needs of South Africa.
1. Addressing anaemia
Anaemia, often caused by iron deficiency, is a persistent problem in South Africa, particularly among women and children. The WHO’s commitment to improving the prevention, diagnosis, and management of anaemia is a step in the right direction.
This includes updated guidance on managing anaemia during pregnancy, a critical need, as maternal anaemia remains a significant contributor to poor birth outcomes.
2. Promoting healthy diets
The rise of ultra-processed foods in South Africa has contributed to alarming obesity rates.
The WHO’s initiative to provide updated guidance on ultra-processed food consumption and optimal animal-source foods tailored to specific populations could help South Africans make more informed dietary choices.
Education campaigns that promote traditional, nutrient-dense foods like maize, beans, and leafy greens could also play a key role.
3. Sodium reduction
South Africans consume excessive amounts of salt, largely from processed foods like bread and snacks.
The WHO’s support for countries to implement sodium reduction strategies is particularly relevant. In 2016, South Africa became the first country to legislate mandatory salt reduction in processed foods.
Building on this progress, with WHO’s technical assistance, could further reduce the burden of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.
4. Tackling childhood obesity
Childhood obesity is on the rise in South Africa, with 13% of children aged 6–14 classified as overweight or obese. The WHO’s plan to publish guidelines on managing obesity in children and adolescents is crucial.
Local schools can adopt these guidelines to improve nutrition education, promote physical activity, and ensure access to healthier meals.
5. Combating climate change through nutrition
Climate change exacerbates food insecurity and malnutrition. South Africa, already vulnerable to droughts and extreme weather, could benefit from the WHO’s commitment to integrating nutrition into climate action plans.
Encouraging sustainable farming practices and supporting local food systems can help ensure access to nutritious, climate-resilient foods.
While the WHO’s commitments provide a global framework, real change happens at the community level.
Here’s how South Africans can get involved:
Support local farmers: Buying fresh produce from local markets not only supports small-scale farmers but also encourages healthier eating habits.
Limit ultra-processed foods: Reducing the consumption of sugary drinks, fast food, and snacks can significantly improve health outcomes. School nutrition: Community members can push for stronger school nutrition programs and stricter regulations on unhealthy food marketing.
Educate and empower: Share knowledge about balanced diets and the importance of nutrition with family and friends, especially in underserved communities.
The WHO’s ambitious commitments, coupled with South Africa’s existing policies like the sugar tax and school nutrition programs, offer hope for a healthier nation. However, success depends on collaboration between governments, communities, and individuals.
By prioritising nutrition, we can address the root causes of malnutrition and create a future where all South Africans can thrive regardless of their socioeconomic status.