by Dr. Fred Harvey 

 
As we move out of the recent pandemic, we still face another threat looming in the background: Climate change. One area of concern with climate change is the alteration of whole foods due to an increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere or free-air CO2 enrichment (FACE). We have seen evidence of modifications of the nutritional makeup of some plants.  

For instance, one study revealed the protein content of rice has diminished. This is a significant concern because much of the world uses rice as its primary grain. There is also evidence of a decrease in zinc and iron within certain foods. CO2 stimulates plant growth—but with increased carbohydrates rather than proteins.  

Researchers have also documented lower amounts of B1 (Thiamine), B2 (Riboflavin), B5 (pantothenate) and B9 (folic acid) nutrients. This data suggests an increased vulnerability to anemia, diarrhea and infectious diseases in some populations.   

According to the World Health Organization, there is already a global challenge with micronutrient deficiency, and global warming will only exacerbate this problem. With the loss of natural habitats and increased human overrunning of formally inaccessible terrains, we are seeing more exposure to zoonotic illnesses like SARS, COVID-19 and the Ebola virus.  

Combine this issue with the nutrient density problems, and we compound the impact of infectious diseases on our society. Pollen and allergens increase with blooming at odd times. For example, my mango tree bloomed at least a month earlier than usual this year.  

Flooding increases the risk of exposure to diarrhea illnesses and vector infections like Dengue, West Nile and Malaria. Extreme temperatures cause illness and death, and wildfires increase air pollution and displacement. In fact, the rate of displacement from these issues raises concerns of instability of emotional or physical stress and food insecurity.  

All these ramifications of climate change point to a significant need for building resilience. Start now to improve your diet and nutritional supplementation in order to create a strong health foundation. Make sure you prepare for seasonal weather changes to ensure adequate food, shelter and other options in case disaster strikes.  

Keep extra vitamins, dry protein powders and extra medications available for a quick move if necessary. In addition, please do not forget to stock up on all your nutritional support needs before storm season hits this year. 

 
Dr. Fred Harvey is the Medical Director of The Harvey Center for Integrative Medicine. He is quadruple board-certified in Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, Functional Medicine and Holistic-Integrative Medicine, specializing in chronic illness recovery and prevention. For more information, visit HarveyCenter.com.