14 THRIVE Edition 2 There is a growing need to boost immunity in order to prevent disease and improve health, which is in line with one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – “Good health and Wellbeing”. Noncommunicable diseases are the leading cause of death (71%) and disability. In South Africa 43% of deaths are due to noncommunicable diseases. On the other hand, land conversion for farming, clearing of our forests for agricultural land use has decreased the sustainability of our food systems. Agriculture alone is responsible for 70% of freshwater withdrawals and water pollution. Decreasing our biodiversity has led to a disruption in our ecosystems which is also caused by global warming and climate change. Agricultural farming as part of our food system has a huge impact on Green House Gas (GHG) and Global warming. About 24% of GHG emissions are due to food systems. One molecule of methane (by-product of enteric fermentation) will trap 21 times more heat than carbon(IV)oxide. In Africa, 39% emissions are from enteric fermentation and 28% from manure left on pastures. Emissions from agriculture have increased annually by 8% in the past 10 years. Since humans are directly responsible for livestock rearing, we are also responsible for livestock-related nitrous oxide (N2O) production. An increase in global demand for meat and dairy products has led to increases in animal wastes with the inevitable increase in nitrogen fertilizer use and nitrous oxide emissions. Nitrous oxide is a GHG and air pollutant that absorbs 310 times more heat than carbon(IV) oxide; 92% of N2O is from agricultural soil management, in particular animal waste storage and management. For those that have a concern on the nutritional quality of plant proteins, a review on the health benefits of plant proteins revealed that complementary sources of protein (from plants) with the essential amino acids is necessary for protein synthesis; combination of pea protein is a good example of a complementary source of plant protein. Furthermore, the epidemiological triangle encompasses the host, agent, and environment (determinants of health). Nutrition and lifestyle are classified as modifiable factors, while genetics is a non-modifiable determinant of health. Modern nutrition focuses on the individual’s nutrient requirements, but integrative nutrition takes a holistic approach including seasons and environment. For instance, a country such as India contributes minimally to the carbon footprint because of the dietary pattern which is predominantly vegetarian. During the current global pandemic of coronavirus, it is reported that increased immunity via intake of antioxidants such as vitamin C, D and zinc-rich plant foods, greatly protect the body against the virus infection and reduce the severity of the disease if contracted. In conclusion, plant foods such as fruits and vegetables require little or no processing and are available in a wide variety in different regions; their consumption should be highly encouraged while consumption of ultraprocessed or artificial foods should be minimized. Food photo created by DCStudio
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