Nutrient deficiencies pose silent threat to Australia’s health
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Despite Australia’s reputation as a food-rich nation, alarming new research reveals that most Australians are failing to meet essential nutrient requirements, increasing their risk of chronic diseases like osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and certain cancers.
A study by FOODiQ Global shows that 22 out of 31 essential nutrients are consumed below recommended levels, with calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, folate, omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fibre identified as the most critical deficiencies across all age groups. These nutrient gaps could lead to long-term public health impacts if not urgently addressed.
“Most people don’t realise that even those who appear healthy may have diets deficient in the top three priority nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D, posing serious long-term health risks,” said Dr Flavia Fayet-Moore, lead researcher at FOODiQ Global.
The research found that older adults, teenagers and males are most affected by these deficiencies, with 94% of Australians not consuming enough calcium and 70% falling short on dietary fibre intake. Additionally, nearly one in three Australians is vitamin D deficient, particularly in older populations.
A decline in the consumption of nutrient-rich foods like dairy, vegetables, legumes and whole grains, combined with an overconsumption of nutrient-poor discretionary foods, has contributed to these deficiencies. For example, dairy milk, one of the richest sources of calcium and magnesium, has seen a steady decline in consumption across Australia.
“This is alarming, as dairy milk is one of the richest sources of two priority nutrients: calcium and magnesium,” Dr Fayet-Moore said.
Practical solutions to bridge the gap
The study identified “Nutrient Heroes” – foods that can effectively fill these dietary gaps. Examples include dairy milk, salmon, spinach, chickpeas, sunflower seeds, high-fibre breakfast cereals and UV-exposed mushrooms, each providing at least two of the six priority nutrients.
Dr Fayet-Moore said that addressing nutrient deficiencies doesn’t require a drastic dietary overhaul. “Bridging the nutrient gap doesn’t require a complete diet overhaul. It’s as easy as adding a dairy milk-based smoothie to your daily routine, a tin of salmon to your lunch, sprinkling some sunflower seeds on your salad, or starting your day with a fortified high-fibre breakfast cereal,” she said.
With Australia’s ageing population and rising chronic disease rates, food-based solutions are crucial for improving healthcare outcomes. Public health experts urge Australians to make simple dietary changes to combat this silent health crisis and promote lifelong well-being.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
