Diet and disease are closely linked. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 80 percent of cases of coronary heart disease, 90 percent of cases of type 2 diabetes and 33 percent of cancers could be averted by eating a healthier diet and exercising. Additionally, 60 percent of deaths among children under 5 years old in developing countries are associated with malnutrition. Risk factors for disease also include, smoking, substance abuse, genetic and environmental factors.
Your diet impacts both your present health and how vulnerable you are to developing a disease later in life. A high intake of saturated fat and refined carbohydrates along with limited exercise increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke and some cancers. These illnesses lead to disability and premature death. The good news is that changing your diet can positively impact your health. MayoClinic.com recommends a reduced-sodium, low-fat diet plan to reduce high blood pressure. The World Health Organization reports that people who improve their diet and lifestyle can reduce the risk of diabetes progression by 58 percent over four years. Breastfeeding is related to lower blood pressure levels later in childhood.
Malnutrition
Chronic diseases begin when a child is in the womb and can continue into old age. Nearly 30 percent of the world's population suffers from malnutrition. About 60 percent of deaths of children under age 5 are associated with malnutrition. About 23.8 percent of babies are born severely underweight, which influences their growth, mental capacity and susceptibility to developing chronic diseases. People who are short in stature as a reflection of malnutrition may have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes as well as cancers of the breast, uterus and colon.
Obesity
Obesity is related to heart disease, hypertension, stroke and diabetes. Reduced intake of dietary fiber, vegetables and fruits and increased intake of sugar, refined carbohydrates and saturated fat in conjunction with lack of physical exertion can lead to obesity. According to the American Cancer Society, cancers of the colon, endometrium, esophagus, kidney and the breast are all more likely to occur in people who are overweight or obese. The extra weight prompts the body to produce more estrogen and insulin, which can make these cancers grow.
Dietary Recommendations
Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains and limiting your intake of saturated fat, sugars and alcohol is the basic tenet of diets supported by the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, the American Diabetes Association and many other disease-prevention and management organizations. Eat at least five servings of vegetables and fruits in a variety of colors every day. These foods contain antioxidants, which fight the free radicals that damage cells and might cause some cancers, as well as minerals, vitamins, fiber and other nutrients. Additionally, their low calorie content helps you maintain a healthy weight. Eat at least three servings of whole grains, including oats, whole-wheat bread and brown rice, each day. Cut back on meats and foods high in saturated fat to reduce cholesterol intake, since high cholesterol puts you at risk for heart disease and stroke.
References
- World Health Organization; Diet, Nutrition and the Prevention of Chronic Diseases; 2003
- Medline Plus; Heart Disease and Diet; David C. Dugdale III, M.D.; May 2010
- HelpGuide.org; Diabetes and Diet Food Tips; Maya W. Paul, Melinda Smith, M.A.; June 2011
- American Cancer Society; Diet and Physical Activity; What's the Cancer Connection?; October 2010
