What helps women eat well? Control over money, time and decisions matters
A systematic review of 518 studies reveals that a woman's agency—her ability to control finances, time, and decision-making—is the primary driver of dietary quality. The study highlights that social norms often prevent women in low-resource settings from accessing essential nutrients.
Why it matters
Identifies that addressing malnutrition requires structural changes in gender equality rather than just increasing food availability.
Worldwide, women carry the greatest burden of malnutrition. More than two-thirds of women of childbearing age don't get enough of at least one micronutrient. These are the vitamins and minerals, such as iron, that the body needs in small amounts to stay healthy. A shortage is often called “ hidden hunger ” because a woman can eat enough to feel full yet still not have enough essential nutrients.
The article summarizes academic research findings on global health and gender dynamics.
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