Priyanka Tiwari
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The rising rates of obesity and non-communicable diseases in India have raised serious health concerns, prompting the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to release updated diet guidelines in 2024. These new guidelines aim to promote healthier dietary habits among Indians to combat diet-related health issues.
Doctors from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) recently highlighted that unhealthy eating habits are a major contributor to the growing burden of diseases in the country. Dr. Parmeet Kaur, Chief Dietician at AIIMS, pointed out that 56 percent of diseases in India are linked to poor dietary choices, with obesity emerging as a significant public health crisis.
Key Dietary Deficiencies in India
One of the key findings from AIIMS doctors and the National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau (NNMB) is the significant deficiency of essential nutrients in the typical Indian diet. Specifically, the intake of pulses, fruits, and vegetables is alarmingly low, leading to insufficient micro-nutrients. According to the NNMB survey, Indians consume less than 50 percent of the recommended daily intake of pulses. Similarly, the consumption of green leafy vegetables and other vital vegetables is on the decline, contributing to a lack of important micronutrients necessary for the body.
The Role of Protein in the Diet
In light of these deficiencies, Dr. Kaur emphasized the importance of increasing protein intake to improve overall health. She suggested that incorporating sprouts, which are rich in vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, zinc, and selenium, can significantly boost nutrient levels. Additionally, milk and milk products should be included in the diet to meet protein requirements.
While plant-based diets are generally considered healthy, Dr. Kaur noted that they often lack vitamin B12, which is mainly found in animal products. Therefore, it is crucial for vegetarians and those following plant-based diets to find alternative sources of vitamin B12.
Increasing Intake of Fruits and Vegetables
To further improve diet quality, Dr. Kaur recommended increasing the daily intake of fruits and vegetables to at least 400 grams per day. This increase not only helps in weight management but also aids in controlling overall calorie consumption. A balanced intake of fruits and vegetables is essential for maintaining proper nutrition and preventing diet-related diseases.
Maintaining a Healthy Balance of Fats and Oils
Dr. Kaur also emphasized the importance of balancing the intake of oils and fats. She urged Indians to avoid excessive consumption of fatty foods, which contribute to obesity and related health problems. Maintaining a healthy balance of fats, along with proper nutrition, is crucial for preventing non-communicable diseases.
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