Food is a fundamental part of our well-being, but are we really sure that our diet guarantees a long and healthy life? The answer is no, according to data analyzed by the Barilla Foundation for World Health Day (April 7).

More than 650 million people over the age of 18, equal to 13

Obesity is one of the risk factors for the onset of some non-communicable diseases – such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory problems, and diabetes. As the numbers show, food and health are connected and impact the costs we pay for medical care.

Junk food, although it often has a low cost, can hide unexpected expenses in the long run, which then weigh on the entire global economic and health system. Obesity is estimated to cost the world economic system 2 trillion dollars (2.8

“In recent years we have witnessed a gradual departure from sustainable food models, such as the Mediterranean Diet, in favor of models rich in animal-based proteins, processed foods with high percentages of sugar, salt, fat or low in fiber,” worries Katarzyna Dembska, nutritionist and researcher at the Barilla Foundation. “These food solutions can expose us, in the long run, to very expensive diseases or health problems. Choosing sustainable diets, in addition to reducing the impact on the environment, can positively affect longevity. For example, a high adherence to the Mediterranean Diet is estimated to result in 4.5 years of extra life expectancy. In short, the care of our health really starts from our plate”  

FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL PYRAMID: FOOD IS THE SOLUTION

Food production is the largest contributor to climate change (31

One of the answers to the problem of climate change can be found right on our plate. A nutritionally correct diet can be the best way to reduce our environmental impact. This combination between health and sustainability is demonstrated by the Double Environmental Food Pyramid, a model that combines the classic food pyramid (whose principles coincide with those of the Mediterranean diet) alongside a new (upside down) “environmental” pyramid in the which foods are classified according to their ecological footprint (Ecological Footprint), the impact that their production has on the environment.

The Barilla Center for Food & Nutrition Foundation (BCFN) is a multi-disciplinary non profit research center which studies the causes and effects on food created by economic, science, society and environmental factors. It produces science-based content that can be used to inform people and help them make responsible choices on food, nutrition, health and sustainability. All BCFN work is monitored by the BCFN Advisory Board.

For further information: www.barillacfn.com

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