Climate change and nutritional biochemistry: emerging risks to growth and development

Climate change represents one of the most significant global challenges, transcending environmental dimensions to directly impact public health and food security. This review explores the complex relationship between climate change and nutritional biochemistry, focusing on the molecular and hormonal mechanisms that control human growth and development. Increased temperatures, altered rainfall patterns, and soil degradation reduce the availability of micronutrients such as iron, zinc, iodine, and essential vitamins, negatively impacting metabolic absorption, hormonal balance, and vital enzyme function. Oxidative stress resulting from harsh climatic conditions also contributes to the accumulation of free radicals, weakens antioxidant defenses, and disrupts growth-related cellular signaling pathways. Vulnerable groups, particularly children and pregnant women, are most vulnerable to these effects, as micronutrient deficiencies are associated with delayed physical and mental development, impaired immunity, and increased rates of chronic and infectious diseases. Heat stress and malnutrition during pregnancy are also associated with increased rates of preterm birth, low birth weight, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Evidence from scientific literature and international reports confirms that addressing these risks requires integrated adaptation strategies that include climate-smart agriculture, enhanced crop biofortification programs, and the development of health and nutrition policies targeting the most vulnerable groups. Understanding the interplay between climate, nutrition, and hormones is a fundamental step toward protecting the health of current and future generations in the face of accelerating climate change.