Obesity and Micronutrient Deficiencies

Obesity is a serious public health threat affecting millions worldwide in both the developed and developing world [1]. In 2009, approximately 40 % of US adults were classified as obese, with a body mass index (BMI) > 30.0 kg/m2 [2]. A myriad of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors are associated with the global rise in obesity [3]. Particularly, increased availability of inexpensive, energy-dense, and low-nutrient value foods are considered major contributory components associated with the rise in obesity [3]. Approximately 27–30 % of the daily caloric intake of US children and adults is comprised of low nutrient-dense foods, with sweeteners and desserts contributing 18–24 % of total calories [4, 5]. Meanwhile, modern farming and food processing techniques have led to a reduction in the micronutrient content of many common foods [6].