University of Central Florida (UCF) ANT2511 The Human Species Final Practice Exam

An agricultural diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies primarily because it often emphasizes a limited variety of crops that may lack essential nutrients. Early agricultural societies tended to rely heavily on staple crops such as grains, which, while providing calories, may not contain adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals needed for optimal health.

For instance, diets focused predominantly on cereals can result in deficiencies of vitamins like B12, vitamins A and C, and essential minerals such as iron and zinc, particularly if animal sources or a diverse range of fruits and vegetables are not included. This is critical because a well-rounded diet typically requires a balance of macronutrients and micronutrients to support overall health and prevent diseases.

Agricultural practices can further exacerbate these deficiencies when monoculture farming is applied, limiting the range of dietary options available to populations and potentially leading to health issues related to inadequate nutrient intake over time.