Revisiting Traditional Food Systems in the Context of the Global Nutrition Transition: Implications for Obesity and Non-Communicable Diseases

The concept for this Research Topic emerged from discussions held after the Deep Dive webinar dedicated to the Frontiers in Science lead article, Obesity and climate change: co-crises with common.The field of global nutrition is increasingly concerned with the impact of changing dietary patterns on health outcomes. The transition from traditional food systems to more globalized, processed diets is widely recognized as a key driver of escalating rates of obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. Ongoing debates center around the complexity of traditional diets, which have historically provided cultural, social, and nutritional benefits but now intersect with sedentary lifestyles and modern food environments in ways that may exacerbate health risks. Recent studies highlight both the protective roles of some traditional foods, rich in fiber, micronutrients, and phytochemicals, and the potential risks of others, especially when traditional consumption patterns are disrupted or combined with increased intake of processed foods. Despite extensive research into the nutrition transition, gaps remain in understanding how best to navigate the duality of traditional food systems, their preservation, and their adaptation to modern health challenges.This Research Topic aims to critically examine the role of traditional food systems in the contemporary context of the global nutrition transition. It seeks to unpack how various traditional diets contribute to health promotion or disease risk, the socio-cultural and economic factors influencing dietary change, and the strategies necessary to leverage cultural food heritage in combating NCDs. Researchers are encouraged to explore questions such as: What are the mechanisms through which traditional diets may protect against or contribute to obesity and other NCDs? How can traditional food systems be modified or reimagined to meet current public health needs without eroding cultural identity? What interdisciplinary approaches are most effective in promoting sustainable diet-related health outcomes?The scope of this Research Topic encompasses original research, systematic reviews, and theoretical explorations that address the influence of traditional food systems within the broader context of dietary change and public health. Submissions should focus on translating insights into actionable policy, community strategies, or educational frameworks, but may also address limitations, regional variations, and methodological challenges. To gather further insights in these areas, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:o Intersections of cultural heritage, food practices, and healtho Epidemiological investigations of traditional diets and NCD incidenceo The impact of urbanization and globalization on traditional food availability and consumptiono Strategies for preserving or reviving traditional dietary knowledgeo Policy and community interventions to promote healthy dietary transitionso Interdisciplinary approaches integrating nutrition science, anthropology, and public healthOriginal research articles, review articles, theoretical perspectives, policy analyses, and case studies are welcome. Topic editors: Dele Raheem, Conrado Javier Iruzubieta Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/79935/revisiting-traditional-food-systems-in-the-context-of-the-global-nutrition-transition-implications-for-obesity-and-non-communicable-diseases