Macro Nutrients

Proteins

Prevalence: ~7.7% of adults over 70 fall below the EAR (0.66 g/kg/day); higher in food-insecure populations (~10.5% of households).
At-Risk Groups: Elderly, vegans with poor diet planning, low-income individuals.
Health Impacts: Muscle loss (sarcopenia), weakened immunity, delayed wound healing.
Cause: Low intake of quality protein sources (e.g., meat, eggs, legumes), especially in plant-based diets without variety.

Carbohydrates (Complex/Fiber)

Prevalence: ~90% of adults don’t meet the 25-38 g/day fiber recommendation.
At-Risk Groups: General population, especially those relying on processed foods.
Health Impacts: Digestive issues (constipation), increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and colon cancer.
Cause: Diets low in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes; but high in refined carbs (processed foods, primarily grains, where the bran and germ have been removed during milling, leading to a loss of fiber, vitamins, and minerals).

Fats (Essential Fatty Acids
Omega-3s: DHA/EPA)

Prevalence: >90% consume below the 250-500 mg/day EPA/DHA recommendation.
At-Risk Groups: General population, especially those not eating fatty fish.
Health Impacts: Inflammation, higher cardiovascular risk, cognitive decline, poor fetal brain development.
Cause: Low intake of fatty fish (e.g., salmon, mackerel), high omega-6/omega-3 ratio from processed oils.