ICMR issues dietary guidelines for Indians, says 'avoid' protein supplements
ALSO READ: ICMR allowed to use drones for vaccine delivery trials in Manipur, Nagaland Drafted by a multidisciplinary committee of experts led by Dr Hemalatha R, Director, ICMR-NIN, the DGIs have undergone several scientific reviews and include 17 guidelines. The NIN mentioned that prolonged intake of large amounts of protein powders or consumption of high protein concentrate has been associated with potential dangers such as bone mineral loss and kidney damage.
According to guidelines, sugar should be less than 5 per cent of total energy intake, and a balanced diet should provide not more than 45 per cent calories from cereals and millet. Adding more, it said sugar should be 15 per cent of calories from pulses, beans and meat.
ALSO READ: Covishield vaccine side effects: Ex-ICMR scientist says only 7 in 10 lakh may face risk The guidelines also stated that the rest of the calories should come from nuts, vegetables, fruits, and milk, while total fat intake should be less than or equal to 30 per cent energy. Citing the limited availability and high cost of pulses and meat, the ICMR-NIN said that a significant proportion of the Indian population relies heavily on cereals, resulting in poor intake of essential macronutrients and micronutrients.
Cautioning the side effects, the body said that low intake of essential nutrients may disrupt metabolism and raise the risk of insulin resistance and associated disorders from a young age. As per the central health monitoring body, around 56.4 per cent of the total disease burden in India is due to unhealthy diets.
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