ISBN: 978-93-94174-56-6

Nutritional Anthropology: A Modern trend in Anthropological Research to Understand the Interactions of Food, Culture, Biology and Health in Human Beings

Assistant Professor and Head, Department of Anthropology, M.H.C.M. Science College, Algapur, Hailakandi, Assam, India

Nutritional Anthropology is an interdisciplinary field that explores the complex interactions among food, culture, biology, environment, and human health. It integrates perspectives from anthropology, nutrition science, and public health to understand how cultural beliefs, social structures, and ecological conditions influence dietary practices and nutritional outcomes. This chapter examines the major concepts of nutritional anthropology, including food culture, nutrition transition, food security, and biocultural diversity, emphasizing their relevance in understanding human nutrition and health behavior. The discussion highlights the role of food as not only a biological necessity but also a cultural symbol that shapes identity, social relationships, and community traditions. The chapter further explores the interrelationship between food, biology, and health, demonstrating how nutritional practices influence growth, metabolism, immunity, and chronic disease prevention. In addition, the significance of culturally sensitive healthcare, balanced diets, nutritional status, and sustainable food systems is critically discussed. Particular attention is given to the importance of nutritional anthropology in addressing global health challenges such as malnutrition, obesity, food insecurity, and nutrition transition in developing societies. The chapter also highlights the relevance of nutritional anthropological research in India, particularly in North-East India, where cultural diversity and indigenous food systems play a crucial role in shaping nutritional practices. By examining the interconnections between culture, nutrition, and health, the chapter emphasizes the need for culturally informed nutrition policies and interventions that promote health equity, sustainability, and community well-being. Overall, nutritional anthropology provides valuable insights for developing holistic approaches to nutrition, public health, and sustainable development.

*Corresponding author; e-mail: connect2gulbarbhuiya@gmail.com

Cite this Chapter: Gulenur Islam Barbhuiya A. F. 2026. Nutritional Anthropology: A Moderntrend in Anthropological Research to Understand the Interactions of Food, Culture, Biology and Health in Haman Beings. In: Dr. Shamim Ahmed Shamim Khan Barbhuiya. Dr. Saurabh Sarma. Dr. Kowser Alam Laskar. Dr. Atiqur Rahman Laskar. Dr. Gulenoor Islam Barbhuiya (Eds.), ANUSANDHAN-A Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Research Repository. Excellent Publishers, India. pp. 114-127. doi: https://doi.org/10.20546/978-93-94174-56-6_14