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On October 16th, we celebrate World Food Day. This year’s theme, “Hand in Hand for better foods and a better future,” reminds us of a growing, silent crisis: while hundreds of millions face hunger, millions more live in overabundance. Even among those with privilege, unbalanced lifestyles and poor health choices are widespread. People worldwide struggle not just with food scarcity, but with the inability to maintain a balanced diet and active lifestyle – fueling persistent malnutrition.

Global Imbalance

The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2025 (SOFI) report revealed that 673 million people in the world face hunger, while the World Health Organization indicates that around 900 million people are obese, and 35.6 million children under the age of 5 are overweight. Addressing malnutrition is as much about lifestyle and informed choices as it is about quantity.

Beyond One-Size-Fits-All

For decades now, health advice has often been delivered as a universal one-size-fits-all solution. In reality, a healthy, balanced lifestyle must be tailored to each individual‘s biology, fitness, and context. Blindly following generic guidance can lead to malnutrition, whether from excess, deficiency, or simply unsuitable routines. True wellness comes from understanding our bodies’ needs and integrating habits like exercise, rest, and mindful choices into daily life.

Imbalance In Wealthier Societies: Italy as an Example

Malnutrition is not limited to low-income regions. In Italy, ISTAT revealed 2.2 million families lived in conditions of absolute poverty, while 32.5 % are overweight, and nearly 10% obese per the World Obesity Atlas. Many households may rely on cheap, calorie-dense foods, while modern life often prioritizes convenience over wellbeing — screens over movement.

Innovation and AI: Tools for Better Health

Breaking free from convenience requires innovation. Technology and AI now provide tools to understand better and improve our lifestyle. AI-derived health platforms and wearable devices can provide real-time analysis of lifestyle, metabolism, nutrient deficiencies, and exercise, offering personalized insights.

Building a Healthier Future Together

World Food Day is a call to reimagine lifestyles globally. Balanced living is not about a single standard but about empowering individuals to make choices that fit their context. Governments can invest in education, sustainable policies, and access to healthier options. Businesses can reduce waste and increase transparency. And consumers can adopt conscious habits, supporting local and ethical producers while learning what truly sustains them. Moving beyond one-size-fits-all approaches, embracing personalized lifestyle choices, and prioritizing well-being over convenience is key to healthier societies.

Read From Crisis to Prevention: Building Anticipatory Nutrition Governance in EU>>>