Although India has succeeded in achieving food security, the issue of nutrition security is still unresolved. Therefore, making healthy food available at affordable prices should be part of our national program. Science also points out that food is an important factor in linking human health and environmental sustainability. The Global Burden of Disease estimates that more people die of malnutrition globally than tobacco and high blood pressure. The study also found that it was a leading cause of death in about 20 percent of cases. In India, two-thirds of women and children were malnourished. As the years passed, food self-sufficiency was achieved, but proper nutrition was still not achieved.
The problems are numerous.
India has the highest number of malnourished children and adolescents. India has the highest number of people with diabetes. As of 1975, there were 1.1 million obese children and adolescents worldwide. In 2016, it increased to 12.4 crores. That is more than ten times. Malnourished and obese people face the dual difficulties of living together. This problem is also increasing in India. The same problem is seen in assessments at the individual, family, and community levels.
Lifestyle changes
The increase in the life span of a human being and the decrease in the number of children per person is very significant. This is a growing trend among older people. At the same time, there are changes in diseases. The incidence of the disease is also increasing from non-communicable diseases to non-communicable diseases. More than 70% of deaths in India today are due to non-communicable diseases. In addition, there are changes in nutrition. People are shifting from traditional ways to foods that are high in fat and sugar. At the same time, physical activity decreases.
Nutritional problems on many levels
The nutrition problems of the country have many levels. At the national level as a whole, we have achieved self-sufficiency in food. When viewed in person, another level is seen. Nutritional inequality is a major challenge. A large section is going through an inadequate diet. According to the National Family Survey, more than 10 percent of children and pregnant women receive an adequate variety of food. At the same time, another large group is getting more calories than they need.
Malnutrition and Remedies
Consumer habits are an important component of food. A 2020 study by Nushakti found that 60 percent of people do not consciously eat nutritious food. Another fact is that 98% of the study participants were aware of the need and importance of proper nutrition. Fifty-five percent admitted to not eating leafy vegetables while pregnant. Forty-two percent did not eat fruit despite knowing the health benefits. Fifty-two percent said it was tough to educate family members about healthy eating.
The importance of nutrition is increasing during this Covid period. A varied diet is the best way to get more of the vitamins and nutrients. This is what should be followed for a long time. For a short period of time, you can take advantage of vitamins, mineral supplements, and a diet rich in nutrients. Comprehensive moves are needed at the government level to make nutritious food available to all. Dietary systems need to be changed, and comprehensive regulations and policies need to be put in place. Along with this, action should be taken to promote the food industry to produce healthy food products. Moves need to be made to make healthy food affordable for all.
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