Expert Warns: Modern Diets Lack Essential Nutrients, Leading to Widespread Health Issues

A recent presentation by nutritionist Dr. Elena Țambrea at the Wellbeing 360˚ event shed light on a critical public health concern: the alarming decline in essential nutrients in plants over the past five decades. Dr. Țambrea cited studies indicating that plants have lost between 20% and 70% of vital nutrients compared to 50 years ago. "Anyone who ignores this reality will certainly expose themselves to health dangers, namely deficiencies," Dr. Țambrea stated. She attributed this decline to unsustainable agricultural practices, where soil is depleted by excessive cultivation and the use of pesticides. A significant focus of her talk was the widespread vitamin D deficiency, particularly prevalent in Romania, even during summer months. This, she explained, is largely due to insufficient sun exposure and the extensive use of sun protection creams. While acknowledging the benefit of sunscreens in reducing skin cancer rates, she warned of the secondary effect of vitamin D deficiency. Dr. Țambrea emphasized the profound importance of vitamin D, noting its involvement in numerous metabolic processes, including those related to weight gain, metabolic syndrome, and even breast cancer. She stressed that daily supplementation with 1000 to 2000 units of vitamin D can make a significant difference. Furthermore, Dr. Țambrea highlighted the often-overlooked deficiencies in Omega-3 and B vitamins, especially among vegans, due to dietary habits. She noted that while Omega-3 is not typically investigated through blood tests, dietary patterns reveal its absence. She also pointed out that even omnivores often neglect Omega-3 in their diets. The nutritionist concluded by listing common, yet often ignored, symptoms of nutrient deficiencies: chronic fatigue, intense food cravings, compulsive or chaotic eating, weight gain, decreased libido, weakened immunity, menstrual cycle disorders, irritability, anxiety, and depression. These, she warned, could be signs or causes of nutrient deficiencies.