In a significant stride towards public health, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recently unveiled a comprehensive set of dietary guidelines aimed at enhancing nutrition and curbing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) prevalent among Indians. Presented by top officials of ICMR, these guidelines are meticulously designed to promote dietary diversity and balanced nutrition across all age groups, with a primary focus on evidence-based recommendations.
Crafted by a diverse panel of experts under the leadership of Dr. Hemalatha R, Director of the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN), Hyderabad, the newly introduced Dietary Guidelines for Indians (DGIs) comprise 17 thematic chapters. The overarching objective is to empower individuals to make informed food choices that are not only accessible and affordable but also inherently nutritious.
Key Tenets of the Dietary Guidelines
At the heart of these guidelines lies the concept of ‘my plate of the day,’ advocating for a balanced distribution of food groups. Half of one’s daily plate should consist of vegetables, fruits, green leafy vegetables, roots, and tubers, while the other half should incorporate cereals, millets, pulses, flesh foods, eggs, nuts, oil seeds, and dairy products like milk or curd. Noteworthy recommendations include limiting cereals to no more than 45% of total daily energy, with proteins accounting for approximately 14-15% of energy intake, fats capped at 30%, and nuts and dairy contributing 8-10%.
Addressing the Burden of Diet-Related Diseases
The release of these guidelines assumes paramount importance against the backdrop of alarming health statistics. ICMR reports that a staggering 56.4% of the disease burden in India stems from unhealthy dietary habits, leading contributors to conditions such as obesity, diabetes, coronary heart disease (CHD), and hypertension (HTN). It is estimated that adhering to the DGIs could prevent up to 80% of type 2 diabetes cases and significantly reduce the prevalence of CHD and HTN.
Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Director General of ICMR, underscored the timeliness of these guidelines amidst shifting dietary patterns characterized by increased consumption of processed foods and reduced physical activity. He expressed confidence in the efficacy of the DGIs to complement governmental initiatives aimed at fostering comprehensive nutritional and health outcomes.
Paving the Way for Healthier Lifestyles
Aligned with global best practices, the guidelines advocate for a reduction in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats intake, alongside minimizing the consumption of ultra-processed foods. Emphasis is also placed on regular physical activity as integral to optimal nutrient utilization. Practical recommendations include reading food labels for informed choices, opting for minimally processed foods, and curbing reliance on cereals to mitigate nutrient deficiencies and associated metabolic risks.
A Holistic Approach to Nutrition
With a dual focus on addressing both undernutrition and overnutrition, the guidelines embody a holistic approach to nutrition. Dr. Hemalatha emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability, accessibility, and affordability of nutrient-rich foods to combat all forms of malnutrition effectively. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the National Nutrition Policy and converges with national policies on agriculture and health, striving to forge a healthier future for all Indians.
The ICMR’s latest dietary guidelines signify a monumental stride towards combating the rising tide of NCDs and fostering nutritional well-being across the Indian populace. By advocating for balanced diets and lifestyle modifications, these guidelines aspire to catalyze a paradigm shift towards healthier, more sustainable eating habits nationwide.
