As North Indians, we take pride in our exquisite cuisine, from ‘delicious butter chicken to a steaming hot plate of chole bhature’. But new research reveals some worrying findings on the subject. Nutrition habits adults living in northern India
The study, conducted by researchers at the George Institute for Global Health, India, in collaboration with the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), sheds light on the intake of sodium, potassium, phosphorus and protein, all of which have a significant impact. Development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and chronic kidney disease (CKD) — rapidly growing health problems in the country.
Published in magazine Limits in Nutrition Enrolling 400 participants, including both healthy adults and those with early-stage chronic kidney disease, the researchers used 24-hour urine excretion analysis to assess nutritional intake. And the results were alarming.
“Excessive salt consumption exceeding recommended levels, inadequate potassium intake (both of which increase the risk of developing hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease), and protein consumption below the recommended dietary allowance,” the study found. Additionally, the study found that men had higher nutrient intakes than women, but overall nutritional intake shows that their habits raise red flags.
“A non-nutritious diet is a significant risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which are a major public health problem. “People in India eat different foods, so it is important to know exactly what nutrients they are getting to help prevent and manage these diseases,” he said. Global Health, India.
“High salt intake and low potassium intake point to the need to develop interventions for individuals and populations,” he added.
Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital nephrology clinical assistant Dr. Rejitha Kaimal said she agreed with the findings of the study. indianexpress.com Despite years of medical advice against high salt intake, North Indian diets remain salt-loaded. Another alarming discovery was the low potassium and protein content in the diet. “While low potassium and protein may be beneficial for chronic patients kidney disease“Insufficient intake of these nutrients in healthy adults can lead to serious health problems, from fatigue and weakness to muscle wasting.”
Researchers have suggested multifaceted strategies to reduce NCD risks, including providing better information on food labels so people can make healthier choices, reducing salt in processed foods, and encouraging people to eat more fruits and vegetables rich in potassium. We reached out to experts to understand other ways to tweak our North Indian diet to optimize it for our health.
1. Reducing salt intake
Apollo Hospitals chief nutritionist Dr Priyanka Rohatgi suggested changing salt It contains natural herbs and spices for spices that can help manage blood pressure.
“Herbs and spices provide the same flavor while also reducing the risk of developing non-communicable diseases,” said Bhakti Dabhi, nutrigenomics expert at Haystack Analytics. However, he noted that it is important to moderate spice intake, as excessive consumption can worsen digestive problems.
How can you reduce your salt consumption? (Source: Freepik)
2. Choose healthier cooking methods
“Instead of frying, choose to cook in zero oil, grill, bake or steam,” said Dhabhi. These cooking methods Not only does it minimize nutrient loss compared to high-heat cooking, it also results in less fat consumption.
3. Diet changes
Dr Rohatgi encourages individuals to increase their consumption of potassium-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables and dairy products, which not only aid electrolyte balance but also heart health. Additionally, protein-rich foods such as lentils, beans, chicken and fish can support muscle strength and overall health.
4. Lifestyle management
Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals nephrology senior consultant Dr. Beyond dietary changes, Jayant Kumar Hota recommended lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity. quit smokingand stress management to improve overall health outcomes.
5. Read food labels
Dr Kaimal suggested reading the book nutritional information labels “Food labels can help customers make healthier choices” should be written on cartons before you buy anything.
In fact, Dr Kaimal urges you to be careful about what goes into your body. “Make conscious choices about what you eat,” he said.