Bad diet goes beyond weight: see 8 problems it favors

According to nutritionist Andreina De Almeida, in content published by the Tua Saúde website, problems such as obesity, iron deficiency anemia, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases are among the conditions that may be related to inadequate nutrition.

The World Health Organization (WHO) also points to unhealthy eating as one of the main modifiable risk factors for non-communicable diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke and some types of cancer.

1. Obesity

Frequent consumption of high-calorie and ultra-processed foods, especially when associated with low intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and other sources of fiber, can promote weight gain. Obesity, in turn, increases the risk of several other health problems.

2. Iron deficiency anemia

Not all anemia is caused by diet, but a diet with insufficient iron can lead to iron deficiency anemia. Foods such as beans, meat, eggs, dark green vegetables and fortified products help provide the mineral.

3. Type 2 Diabetes

A diet with excess calories, sugar and certain types of fat can contribute to weight gain and metabolic changes related to insulin resistance. Obesity is also a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

4. Cardiovascular diseases

Dietary patterns influence factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, body weight and glucose levels. Therefore, an unbalanced diet can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, while a healthy diet helps protect against problems such as heart disease and stroke.

5. Fat in the liver

Hepatic steatosis, popularly known as fatty liver, has different factors involved in its development. Excess weight, metabolic changes and inadequate eating habits can contribute to the problem, but the condition should not be attributed solely to diet.

6. Osteoporosis

A diet low in nutrients important for bones can also take its toll over the years. Insufficient intake of calcium and vitamin D is associated with a greater risk of bone loss, osteoporosis and fractures.

7. Chronic kidney disease

Excessive salt consumption and a low-quality diet can indirectly contribute to kidney problems by favoring conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and obesity. Diabetes and high blood pressure are among the main causes of chronic kidney disease in adults.

8. Some types of cancer

There is no single diet that alone determines the onset of cancer. The risk depends on a combination of genetic, environmental and behavioral factors. Still, poor diet quality, obesity and frequent consumption of certain foods are associated with a greater risk of some tumors.

The WHO highlights that diets rich in fruits, vegetables and other low-processed foods are associated with a lower risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some types of cancer.

Signs must be evaluated individually

Fatigue, hair loss, changes in appetite and unexplained weight loss can appear in different health problems and do not, in themselves, indicate that diet is the cause. In the face of persistent symptoms, the recommendation is to seek professional evaluation rather than trying to correct the problem with dietary changes or supplements alone.

Treatment also varies depending on the condition and may involve changes in diet, physical activity, medical and nutritional monitoring and, in certain situations, medications or other procedures.

4 foods that shouldn't marinate all night

Leaving ingredients in the marinade for many hours does not always improve the result. Fish, some cuts of pork, small pieces of chicken and quick-cooking vegetables can lose texture and quality when left too long in acidic or salty mixtures.