Addressing the Double Burden of Malnutrition using the Life Course Perspective

Abstract

The double burden of malnutrition refers to the coexistence of undernutrition which is typically characterised by stunting and wasting, alongside overnutrition at all levels of the population. The objective of this article is to review the current issues in addressing the double burden of malnutrition using the life course approach. Studies addressing life course approach in DBM were identified through PubMed & EMBASE databases. Relevant studies were critically appraised. The challenges, opportunities and way forward in addressing DBM through the life course concept were discussed. The review showed that the DBM dilemma could be addressed via a holistic perspective through a life course concept as nutrition plays an important role in influencing health from pre-conception to old age. The life course concept proposes that environmental exposures, including biological, physical, social, and behavioral factors, including life experiences, throughout life, influence health outcomes in current generations and their offspring.