Diet-related health problems
- Obesity: eating more energy than is used over time. It raises the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers and joint problems.
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD): high saturated fat and salt can cause high cholesterol and high blood pressure, narrowing arteries and leading to coronary heart disease and stroke.
- Type 2 diabetes: the body can't control blood sugar properly. It is linked to obesity and diets high in sugar.
- Bone health: too little calcium and vitamin D causes rickets in children and osteoporosis in older adults.
- Dental health: sugary foods and drinks cause tooth decay.
- Iron deficiency anaemia: too little iron causes tiredness and pale skin.
Reducing the risks
- Follow the Eatwell Guide, with plenty of fruit, vegetables and wholegrains.
- Cut down on saturated fat, salt and free sugars, and choose water rather than sugary drinks.
- Stay active and keep a healthy weight.
Analysing a diet
- Recipes and diets can be analysed with nutrition software to find their energy and nutrient values.
- Results are compared with dietary reference values (DRVs) to see if a person's needs are met.
- Recipes can be modified: swap white rice for brown, reduce sugar, or add vegetables.
Key terms
- Obesity
- Having excess body fat that harms health.
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
- Type 2 diabetes
- A condition where the body can't control blood sugar properly.
- Coronary heart disease
- Narrowing of the arteries supplying the heart.
- Osteoporosis
- Weak, brittle bones that break easily.
- Dietary reference values
- Estimates of the nutrients and energy needed by different groups.