ICMR reports that 56 percent of chronic diseases in India are linked to unhealthy diets and poor lifestyle choices - Video

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has unveiled a startling fact: 56.4% of India's total disease burden stems from unhealthy diets, highlighting how everyday food choices profoundly affect long-term health. The report was published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research.

This shift toward processed foods high in sugars and unhealthy fats, combined with reduced physical activity and limited access to nutrient-rich foods, fosters the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.

To address this, ICMR has released 17 evidence-based dietary guidelines focused on promoting balanced, nutrient-dense diets. Key recommendations include limiting salt intake, consuming healthy fats from nuts, seeds, and seafood moderatively, minimizing sugars and ultra-processed foods, and paying close attention to food labels. The guidelines discourage regular use of protein supplements due to risks such as kidney damage. Encouraging physical activity alongside good nutrition is emphasized for optimal health. Dietary advice includes ensuring calorie intake is balanced across food groups, with cereals constituting no more than 45% of calories, pulses and meats about 15%, and the remainder from fruits, vegetables, nuts, and dairy.

ICMR’s guidelines represent a logical, sustainable approach to combating malnutrition and chronic diseases by enhancing the availability and affordability of diverse, nutrient-rich foods. With processed food consumption rising, many Indians overly rely on staples like rice and cereals, which limits protein and essential fat intake.

The report is a call to action for individuals to diversify meals with vegetables, fruits, pulses, and nuts while reducing ultra-processed food intake. Families can support healthy habits by prioritizing home-cooked meals rich in nutrients. Policymakers are urged to improve access to nutritious foods to support healthier communities.

Following these guidelines can significantly reduce India's chronic disease burden, improving health outcomes and preventing premature deaths. Healthy eating choices today set a healthier foundation for families and future generations.

REFERENCE: Rupal Manoj Shah, Geetanjali Sachdeva, Uddhav K. Chaudhari; Dietary guidelines across different countries & comparisons to dietary guidelines for Indians, 2024; Indian Journal of Medical Research; 162(1);53-65; doi:10.25259/IJMR_1674_2024