The interplay of 'twin nutrients' (vitamin D and boron) in an allegedly understated anthropometric status (stunting, anaemia, malnutrition) that refuses to improve - missing links, missed opportunities and actionable lessons from the field of veterinary medicine

Abstract

Abstract Background: Despite various measures taken by governments, the lack of significant improvements in malnutrition status remains a troubling issue, causing concern for implementing agencies and the biomedical community worldwide. Interestingly, similar issues have also emerged in the veterinary sector in recent decades, particularly in dairy, poultry, piggery, and goat farming. As a result, research in veterinary medicine has been conducted on a war footing because the welfare of animals, farmer profitability, and human health have been at stake. This manuscript aims to understand the mystery of anthropometric failure in humans through an interdisciplinary perspective. Methods: To investigate the missing links between nutrients, hormones, and anthropometrics, a literature search was conducted using the databases 'PubMed' and 'Google Scholar' with various related keywords to find unexplored causes of malnutrition. The obtained data was further analysed with the aim of identifying the missing links. The keyword search was then narrowed down to 'vitamin D' and 'Boron' based on the hypothesis that they could be considered as 'common but natural constituents other than food'. To substantiate, data from the Indian population, including CNNS and NFHS-5, were analysed. Findings: The hypothesis that 'paired deficiency statuses' (Vitamin D and Boron deficiency) lead to a 'cascade effect' on 'deteriorating anthropometric values' (such as the hunger index) appears to be supported by the results of the comparative review of multi-disciplinary literature and derived data analysis. Interpretation: Prompt intervention to revise the supplementation and fortification dosage of vitamin D and boron could lead to improvements in anthropometric values. However, to address the issue effectively, it is crucial to clarify the definitions of deficiency and toxicity. In the long run, efforts to enhance ‘soil organic carbon’ could serve as a sustainable solution for ‘triple burden of malnutrition’ in India. Funding: The PP research is supported by ICMR-NIN intra-mural grant (20-NINAF03).