ASSIGNMENT 4 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 15 MAY 2025
,SECTION A – CONTENT
2.1 Goals of National Nutrition Week
National Nutrition Week is an initiative with the following key aims:
Encouraging Healthy Diets: Promote the intake of nutritious foods such as
fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Spreading Awareness: Educate people on how proper nutrition helps prevent
various health conditions.
Supporting At-Risk Groups: Focus on the dietary needs of vulnerable groups
such as children, expectant mothers, and older adults.
Fighting Malnutrition: Work toward reducing both undernourishment and
excessive nutrition across communities.
Promoting Sustainable Eating: Support the use of local, less processed foods
that are environmentally and economically sustainable.
2.2 Causes of Food Insecurity in Rural Areas of South Africa
Food insecurity in South Africa’s rural communities is driven by multiple issues:
1. Climate Instability: Unpredictable weather patterns such as drought and
flooding negatively impact farming activities.
2. Poverty Levels: Many families cannot afford healthy food due to limited financial
means.
3. Joblessness: Unemployment reduces income, making it difficult for households
to buy sufficient food.
4. Poor Infrastructure: Challenges like inadequate transport and food storage limit
access to markets and fresh produce.
5. Limited Farming Support: Farmers often lack access to tools, seeds, and
technical guidance needed to boost food production.
2.3 Dietary Risk Factors Leading to Non-Communicable Diseases in 2017
, In 2017, the World Health Organization identified several diet-related factors that
increased the risk of chronic diseases:
Excessive Salt Consumption: Associated with raised blood pressure and heart
disease.
Insufficient Whole Grain Intake: Linked to higher risks of diabetes and
cardiovascular problems.
Lack of Fruit in Diets: Results in poor intake of essential nutrients, weakening
immunity and health.
Heavy Intake of Processed Foods: Contributes to obesity and other lifestyle-
related conditions.
2.4 The Role of Nutrition Education for Children and Families
Teaching families and young children about nutrition plays a vital role by:
Supporting Early Growth: Good nutrition is critical for healthy brain and body
development in children.
Enabling Better Decisions: With proper knowledge, families are more likely to
choose healthy, balanced meals that lead to improved well-being.