ICMR releases 17 dietary guidelines, says 56.4% of disease burden in India due to unhealthy diets
The Hindu
The new ICMR guidelines recommend restricting salt intake, using oils and fat in moderation, doing proper exercise, minimising sugar and ultra-processed foods.
Estimates show that 56.4% of the total disease burden in India is due to unhealthy diets, the ICMR said on May 8, as it released 17 dietary guidelines to meet the requirements of essential nutrients and prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity and diabetes.
The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) under the apex health research body said that healthy diets and physical activity can reduce a substantial proportion of coronary heart disease (CHD) and hypertension (HTN) and prevent up to 80 per cent of type 2 diabetes.
"A significant proportion of premature deaths can be averted by following a healthy lifestyle," it said, adding that the upsurge in the consumption of highly processed foods laden with sugars and fats, coupled with reduced physical activity and limited access to diverse foods, exacerbate micronutrient deficiencies and overweight issues.
The NIN recommended restricting salt intake, using oils and fat in moderation, doing proper exercise, minimising sugar and ultra-processed foods.
It also suggested adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent obesity and reading information on food labels to make informed and healthy food choices.
The Dietary Guidelines for Indians (DGIs) has been drafted by a multi-disciplinary committee of experts led by Dr Hemalatha R, Director, ICMR-NIN and has undergone several scientific review.
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