ICMR Releases Dietary Guidelines, Links 56% of Diseases in India to Diet

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has released 17 dietary guidelines aimed at meeting essential nutrient requirements and preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like obesity and diabetes. According to the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), estimates suggest that 56.4% of the total disease burden in India is attributable to unhealthy diets.

The guidelines emphasize the importance of healthy diets and physical activity in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), hypertension (HTN), and type 2 diabetes. They recommend measures such as restricting salt intake, moderating the use of oils and fats, engaging in regular exercise, and minimizing consumption of sugar and ultra-processed foods.

Dr. Hemalatha R, Director of ICMR-NIN, led a multi-disciplinary committee of experts in drafting the guidelines, which underwent scientific review. The aim is to promote informed and healthy food choices, encourage adoption of a healthy lifestyle, and address issues related to malnutrition.

Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Director General of ICMR, highlighted the relevance of the guidelines in addressing the changing food landscape in India. He emphasized the importance of promoting holistic nutrition and health while tackling the prevalence of non-communicable diseases.

The guidelines advocate for a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods, limiting cereals to 45% of total calories, and incorporating pulses, beans, meat, nuts, vegetables, fruits, and milk for essential nutrients. The NIN underscores the need to address the limited availability and high cost of certain food items, which can lead to inadequate intake of essential macronutrients and micronutrients, increasing the risk of metabolic disorders from a young age.