Which is more fatal between tobacco and poor diet?; It is poor diet: Study

A new study has revealed that poor diet is responsible for more number of deaths globally than tobacco consumption, high blood pressure or other health issues. The diet that includes less whole grains, while too many unhealthy elements, accounted for every fifth death globally.

The study was published in the journal 'Lancet'. "Poor diet is an equal opportunity killer. We are what we eat and risks affect people across a range of demographics, including age, gender, and economic status," said Dr Ashkan Afshin, lead author.

The study brought out that poor diets resulted in 10.9 million deaths which are 22 per cent of all deaths among adults in 2017. The leading cause was cardiovascular disease followed by cancers and diabetes. However, tobacco resulted in an estimated 8 million deaths.

The study indicated that three dietary factors-low intakes of whole grains, fruits and high sodium intake resulted in 50 per cent of diet-related deaths. The other 50 per cent were due to high red meat, processed meat, sugary beverages' intake. "Dietary policies focusing on promoting healthy eating can have a more beneficial effect than policies advocating against unhealthy foods," said Afshin.

"Our research finds the need for a comprehensive food system intervention to promote the production, distribution, and consumption of healthy foods across nations." Dr Walter Willett, a co-author of the study. The assessment depicted the factors for diet-related deaths are high sodium, low whole grains, fewer fruits, fewer nuts and seeds and fewer vegetable intake.

(With inputs from agencies.)