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India's ICMR Releases 17 Dietary Guidelines to Combat Non-Communicable Diseases
The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), operating under the purview of the apex health research body, stressed that adopting healthy diets and engaging in physical activity could significantly mitigate coronary heart disease (CHD), hypertension (HTN), and prevent up to 80% of type 2 diabetes cases.
- By PharmaNews Live Desk
- New Delhi
- May 09, 2024
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) revealed on Wednesday that an alarming 56.4% of India's disease burden is attributed to unhealthy diets. This revelation accompanied the release of 17 dietary guidelines aimed at addressing the lack of essential nutrients and curbing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity and diabetes.
The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), operating under the purview of the apex health research body, stressed that adopting healthy diets and engaging in physical activity could significantly mitigate coronary heart disease (CHD), hypertension (HTN), and prevent up to 80% of type 2 diabetes cases.
Highlighting the importance of lifestyle choices, the NIN underscored that a substantial portion of premature deaths could be prevented by adhering to a healthy lifestyle. It cautioned against the rising consumption of highly processed foods rich in sugars and fats, coupled with decreased physical activity and limited access to diverse foods, which exacerbate micronutrient deficiencies and overweight issues.
Among the recommendations outlined by the NIN are restrictions on salt intake, moderation in the use of oils and fats, regular exercise, and minimizing the consumption of sugar and ultra-processed foods. Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle and being mindful of food labels were encouraged to make informed dietary choices.
The Dietary Guidelines for Indians (DGIs), formulated by a multidisciplinary committee led by Dr. Hemalatha R., Director of ICMR-NIN, underwent rigorous scientific review. Dr. Hemalatha emphasized that ensuring the availability, accessibility, and affordability of nutrient-rich foods while promoting dietary diversity is paramount in combatting malnutrition.
Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Director General of ICMR, acknowledged the evolving dietary habits in India, which have contributed to the surge in non-communicable diseases. He praised the practicality of the guidelines, which address food safety, promote minimally processed foods, emphasize the importance of food labels, and advocate for increased physical activity.
Citing concerning statistics, the NIN revealed that 34% of children aged 5-9 suffer from high triglycerides, indicating a pressing need for dietary intervention. The guidelines recommend a balanced diet comprising no more than 45% of calories from cereals and millets, up to 15% from pulses, beans, and meat, with the remainder from nuts, vegetables, fruits, and milk.
However, the NIN expressed concern over the heavy reliance on cereals due to the limited availability and high cost of pulses and meat, leading to inadequate intake of essential macronutrients and micronutrients among a significant portion of the Indian population. Insufficient intake of essential nutrients, it warned, could disrupt metabolism and increase the risk of insulin resistance and associated disorders from an early age.