The global problem of hidden hunger

Vitamins and minerals are critical to our physical and intellectual health, yet there are billions of people around the world who live with nutrient deficiencies. These important nutrients contribute to everything from boosting our immune system to supporting normal growth and ensuring our organs are doing their jobs.

While some people may consume enough calories to survive, they lack the micronutrients needed to reach their full physical and mental potential. This is known as “hidden hunger” and its effects are detrimental, causing a downward spiral of poor health, impaired learning, decreased productivity, and life threatening illnesses.

At the most basic level, the problem is related to an inadequate diet. People living in underdeveloped countries across the world have diets that are based mostly on staple crops including wheat and rice. These starchy foods provide large sources of energy but relatively low amounts of essential vitamins and minerals to cover the necessary daily requirements.

These food habits are usually not a choice, but a forced reality, because people in these areas are not able to afford or gain access to a wide range of nutritious foods such as animal products, fruits, or vegetables. Food sources like fish, meat, eggs and leafy greens are what provide us with the micronutrients our body needs, so a diet without them can result in problems.

Providing vitamin supplementation to those selected population groups who are most at risk is one of the most cost effective solutions to break the cycle of hidden hunger. Canadians can contribute to this solution through Jamieson Vitamins' Share the Health Campaign. Jamieson has partnered with Vitamin Angels, a non-profit that distributes vitamins to at-risk populations, and the Share the Health campaign will reach 500,000 children with critically needed vitamin A.