Why Vegetables Are Losing Nutrients: Causes, Impacts & Solutions
Over the past few decades, the levels of
minerals and vitamins in vegetables have significantly decreased. Thirty years
ago, people could naturally supplement their nutritional needs through food,
but today, things are different. One of the primary causes of this change is
the overuse of chemical fertilizers and excessive processing in agriculture.
First, the overuse of chemical fertilizers
has become common in global agriculture. Farmers apply large amounts of
chemical fertilizers to boost crop yields, which can indeed increase production
in the short term. However, it also alters the soil composition, causing a
gradual depletion of trace elements in the soil. These trace elements are
crucial for plant growth, directly impacting the mineral and vitamin content of
vegetables. When the soil lacks these essential nutrients, the nutritional
value of the vegetables diminishes.
Secondly, excessive processing also
negatively affects the nutritional content of vegetables. The journey from the
field to the table involves multiple steps, including washing, peeling, and
cutting. These processes not only result in the loss of a large amount of
vitamins but may also cause the depletion of minerals. While modern food
processing techniques have extended the shelf life and improved the appearance
of food, they have also, to some extent, sacrificed its nutritional value.
Many people view dietary supplements with
skepticism, considering them fraudulent. This perspective is similar to that of
fake news. We must collectively safeguard the truth, understanding and
selecting reputable supplement brands and products.
Due to these reasons, modern individuals
cannot rely solely on vegetables to obtain all essential nutrients. We need to
pay close attention to food sources, opting for produce grown in good
conditions and using organic fertilizers. Additionally, to compensate for the
minerals and vitamins lacking in our daily diet, many people turn to dietary
supplements as an additional source. These supplements can provide the
necessary nutrients, helping us maintain a healthy body.
In conclusion, the decline in mineral and
vitamin content in vegetables is an issue that should not be ignored. Besides
choosing healthy ingredients, the prudent use of dietary supplements is also an
effective solution. By doing so, we can ensure our bodies receive adequate
nutrition to tackle the challenges of modern life.
Reference: Bhardwaj, Raju Lal
et al. “An Alarming Decline in the Nutritional Quality of Foods: The Biggest
Challenge for Future Generations' Health.” Foods (Basel, Switzerland) vol.
13,6 877. 14 Mar. 2024, doi:10.3390/foods13060877
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