The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recently expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of unhealthy diets in India and their detrimental impact on the nation’s health. The council’s report highlights that unhealthy dietary practices are responsible for a substantial 56.4% of the overall disease burden in the country. In light of this alarming statistic, the ICMR has issued a set of revised ‘Dietary Guidelines for Indians (DGIs)’ to address the nutritional needs of the population and combat the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
The revised DGIs emphasize the importance of a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients while limiting the consumption of unhealthy foods. The guidelines recommend reducing salt intake, minimizing sugar consumption, avoiding ultra-processed foods, and carefully reading food labels to make informed and healthy choices. The ICMR particularly cautions against the prolonged use of excessive protein supplements, as they have been linked to potential health risks such as bone mineral loss and kidney damage.
The DGIs also stress the need for a diverse and balanced diet that includes a variety of food groups. The guidelines recommend limiting sugar intake to less than 5% of total energy intake and obtaining no more than 45% of calories from cereals and millets, and up to 15% of calories from pulses, beans, and meat. The remaining calories should be derived from nuts, vegetables, fruits, and milk. Total fat intake should not exceed 30% of energy intake.
The ICMR acknowledges the challenges faced by a significant portion of the Indian population in accessing a diverse range of nutrient-rich foods due to limited availability and high costs. This reliance on cereals alone can lead to deficiencies in essential macronutrients (essential amino acids and essential fatty acids) and micronutrients, increasing the risk of insulin resistance and associated disorders from a young age.
The council emphasizes that adopting healthy diets and engaging in regular physical activity can significantly reduce the incidence of chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease (CHD) and hypertension (HTN), and prevent up to 80% of type 2 diabetes. By following a healthy lifestyle, a substantial proportion of premature deaths can be averted. The ICMR calls for increased awareness and adoption of healthy dietary practices to combat the rising burden of NCDs in India.
