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Evolutionary Implications of Changing Nutritional Patterns in Human Populations
Author(s) -
Stini William A.
Publication year - 1971
Publication title -
american anthropologist
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.51
H-Index - 85
eISSN - 1548-1433
pISSN - 0002-7294
DOI - 10.1525/aa.1971.73.5.02a00030
Subject(s) - homo sapiens , adaptability , malnutrition , population , biology , period (music) , evolutionary biology , human evolution , microevolution , selection (genetic algorithm) , demography , ecology , medicine , sociology , computer science , anthropology , physics , pathology , acoustics , artificial intelligence
Malnutrition is a widespread problem in the tropical regions of the world, the same areas which are believed to be man's ancestral home. Much of the adaptive complex characterizing contemporary Homo sapiens was assembled during the period of at least partial reliance on dietary intake of animal protein. Adjustments to low protein intake are most difficult during the period of growth and development. Selection against individuals unable to make suitable adjustments exerts pressure on the human population to retain adaptability while maintaining appropriate body proportions and sexual dimorphisms for body size .