British Rationing Improved Wartime Health

Food rationing during World War II increased life expectancy and reduced infant mortality in the United Kingdom, excluding deaths caused by the fighting. Rather than forcing everyone to eat a prescribed menu, the system ensured access to a varied diet containing enough vitamins while reducing fat and sugar consumption and increasing milk and fiber intake. The government also gave young children free blackcurrant syrup and bottled orange juice while providing subsidized milk to children under 5 and expectant mothers.

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