The connection between diet and nutrition are so interwoven that one drastically influences the other. Chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, dental disease, and osteoporosis- can all be prevented by our diet. Early on in infancy, breastfeeding may help prevent obesity and some of the above-mentioned chronic diseases. The risk for developing these chronic diseases can be reduced by learning to eat healthily, maintaining the weight and by physical activity and exercise. A sedentary lifestyle as well as genetic factors can increase these risk factors and make one more susceptible to chronic health conditions. Learning and developing new eating habits as well as taking little steps to incorporate physical activity on a daily basis will help to decrease this risk. Malnutrition is basically due to ‘lack of nutrition’. It is due to a lack of the essential nutrients such as protein, energy, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins that are needed to sustain adequate health. Malnutrition weakens the organs, and immune system thus making one susceptible to many diseases and frequent infections. Our diet; our eating habits, and malnutrition both sides of the spectrum can ultimately lead to death.
Greenfacts (2003) Scientific Facts on Diet and Nutrition Prevention of Chronic Diseases. Retrieved November 19, 2011 from: http://www.greenfacts.org/en/diet-nutrition/index.htm#3
