The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has released new guidelines about what we eat, saying that more than half of the diseases in India are linked to our diet. They found that unhealthy eating habits contribute to around 56.4% of all health issues in the country. The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) also mentioned that by eating well and staying active, we can lower the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes by up to 80%.
To stay healthy, the ICMR and NIN suggest some simple tips like eating less salt, using oils and fats in moderation, exercising regularly, cutting down on sugar and processed foods, and reading food labels to make better choices. They created these guidelines after consulting with experts and reviewing scientific evidence.
Dr. Hemalatha R, who led the committee drafting the guidelines, emphasized the importance of having access to nutritious foods and promoting a diverse diet to tackle malnutrition. Dr. Rajiv Bahl, the Director General of ICMR, highlighted the need for practical advice on food safety, choosing healthier options, and being physically active.
The NIN also mentioned that many children between 5-9 years old have high triglycerides, which could lead to health problems later in life. They recommend a balanced diet with a good mix of cereals, pulses, beans, meat, nuts, vegetables, fruits, and milk. However, they noted that because pulses and meat are not always affordable or available, many people rely too much on cereals, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health issues.
Overall, the guidelines aim to help people make healthier food choices and improve their overall well-being in the long run.
