Does Agriculture Promote Diet Diversity? A Bangladesh Study

It is now widely recognised that intake of sufficient dietary energy — the most basic human need for survival — does not ensure adequate intake of protein and micronutrients necessary for leading an active and healthy life. Legumes, animal products, fruits and vegetables are important sources of minerals and micronutrients. Micronutrient deficiency causes impaired cognitive development, compromises immunity and increases vulnerability to infectious diseases and, in severe cases, even causes mortality. Recent studies show that the consumption of animal and fish products, which are dense in protein and micronutrients, has a higher correlation with nutritional status than does energy consumption (Smith 2004b). Thus, to improve the nutritional situation it is crucial that we address issues of dietary quality in addition to those of dietary quantity.

Publication: 

South Asia Focus

Funded by UK DFID

This research has been funded by the UK Government’s Department for International Development; however the views expressed do not necessarily reflect the UK Government’s official policies

partners

Newsletter

Follow Us