The nutritional status of the Spanish population from 1900-1970. To assess nutritional intake and availability

This article studies the evolution of the nutritional state of the Spanish population between 1900 and 1970, comparing its needs with the consumption of nutrients. The nutritional state is a basic indicator of the well-being and the economic potential of any society. In the Spanish case, we conclude, that an important part of its population, during most of the time span of this study, will ingest insufficient quantities of the analysed nutrients. This will be translated into high levels of malnutrition and chronic under nourishment which in turn will influence the physical and economic development of this population, particularly during the Civil War and the post-war. Comparison with other countries of Western Europe also indicates Spain's delay in this area, which was not corrected until the 1960's. Other indicators such as anthropometrical data fully confirm the afore-mentioned statements. © SEHA.