Nutrition Transition in Iran: An Analytical Study of the Factors Related to Life-Style Regarding Non-Communicable Diseases in Recent Decades

Mahdieh Abbasalizad-Farhangi; Maliheh Barzegari

doi:10.18502/jnfs.v8i4.14005

Mahdieh Abbasalizad-Farhangi Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Maliheh Barzegari Department of Community Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jnfs.v8i4.14005

Keywords: Nutrition transition; Obesity; Iran; Health; Chronic diseases

Abstract

Background: In the current scoping review, nutrition transition and its consequences in Iran have been reviewed, and relevant health improvement policies have been described. Methods: This was an analytical study which concerned demographic, economic and socio-political context, nutrition, dietary patterns and related metabolic syndrome, or their consequences among Iranian population in recent decades. Results: In the last decades, socio-economic problems increased food insecurity, and unhealthy diet has been common. The prevalence of obesity was higher in urban areas compared with rural areas. There was also a high prevalence of nutritional risk factors; food choices tended to be less healthy; high-fat food choices has been increased, and there was lower physical activity. The prevalence of non-communicable diseases and metabolic syndrome including hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus are progressively elevated. Conclusions: Urgent preventive strategies and policies by the government and healthcare community are essential. These strategies are necessary for promoting national health, increasing life expectancy, and decreasing metabolic syndrome, diet-related and lethal diseases including cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes.