The country’s apex body on health matters issues dietary guidelines to combat non-communicable diseases.
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — Alarming statistics have emerged from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), indicating that a staggering 56.4% of diseases in India stem from unhealthy eating habits. In its latest report released on Wednesday, the ICMR underscores the critical importance of dietary choices in maintaining overall health and well-being.
According to the report, maintaining a balanced diet comprising specific food groups is paramount to ensuring optimal health. Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Director General of ICMR, stresses the significance of adhering to recommended dietary guidelines to mitigate the risk of non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
The report outlines essential dietary requirements, noting that an individual requires 1,200 grams of food per day, providing approximately 2,000 calories. This includes 100 grams of fruits, 400 grams of green vegetables, 300 ml of milk or yogurt, 85 grams of pulses or eggs, 35 grams of nuts, and 250 grams of grains. However, exceeding 27 grams of fat intake per day could pose health hazards.
For non-vegetarian diets, the ICMR recommends a maximum daily intake of 70 grams of chicken or meat. The release of 17 dietary guidelines by the ICMR underscores the organisation’s commitment to promoting healthier eating habits among the populace.
Additionally, the report underscores the significance of proper nutrition during infancy and pregnancy. Infants aged six to eight months require 650 calories per day, with breastfeeding supplemented by pulses, rice, fruit, and other nutritious foods. Similarly, nine to 12-month-old infants necessitate 720 calories daily, emphasising a well-rounded diet for optimal growth and development.
A joint study by the George Institute for Global Health India and PGI Chandigarh highlighted prevalent dietary trends, indicating a high salt and low potassium intake among individuals. Moreover, specific dietary recommendations for pregnant women underscore the importance of balanced nutrition for maternal and foetal health.
The ICMR’s dietary guidelines emphasise the importance of structured meal plans throughout the day, encompassing a variety of food groups to meet nutritional requirements. Moreover, the organisation cautions against excessive consumption of high-quality protein supplements, citing potential health risks associated with their use.
As India grapples with a growing burden of lifestyle-related diseases, adherence to recommended dietary practices assumes paramount importance in safeguarding public health. The ICMR’s comprehensive dietary guidelines serve as a roadmap towards healthier eating habits, offering individuals and families the opportunity to make informed choices for a healthier future.
