ICMR issues dietary guidelines for Indians focuses on nutrient deficiencies and NCDs

New Delhi: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) released dietary guidelines to combat nutritional deficiencies and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases in the country, and promoted healthy diets and lifestyles

A set of 17 detailed guidelines have been drafted by a multi-disciplinary committee of experts under the leadership of Dr Hemalatha R, Director, ICMR-NIN.

Speaking at the release event orgainsed at the ICMR headquarters Dr Rajiv Bahl said, “The dietary habits of Indians have undergone significant changes over the past few decades, leading to an increase in the prevalence of non-communicable diseases while some of the problems of undernutrition continue to persist. These guidelines have been made very relevant to the changing food scenario in India with addition of practicable messages and suggestions on handling food safety, choosing minimally processed foods, importance of food labels and physical activity. ”

Dr Hemalatha R, Director, ICMR-NIN said “These DGIs offer the most logical, sustainable, and long-term solution to all forms of malnutrition and helps in ensuring the availability, accessibility, and affordability of nutrient-rich foods while promoting consumption of diverse foods.”

The guidelines focused on eating a balanced diet and adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent obesity, maintaining proper exercise, minimising ultra-processed foods, and reading information on food labels to make informed and healthy food choices.