National Nutrition Week (September 1st to September 7th) :
In India, where life is advancing at a great pace, the harsh reality of poor nutrition is still casting it’s shadow over the community. Despite our diversity and vibrant culture, we still face a somber truth: many deaths are linked to malnutrition. According to WHO around 11 million deaths annually are caused by unhealthy diets.
The first week of September not only marks the beginning of changing weathers, but it also serves as a reminder of National Nutrition Week ! Have you ever wondered how something as basic as your diet can have such a profound impact on your life?
What exactly is National Nutrition Week?
National Nutrition Week in India is observed annually from September 1st to September 7th. This week is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of nutrition and healthy eating habits to improve overall health and well-being across the country. The initiative is led by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, and is supported by various state governments, health organizations, NGOs, and community groups.
Importance of National Nutrition Week in India.
Malnutrition remains a significant public health issue in India, particularly among children and women. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) 2019-21, 35.5% of children under five are stunted, 19.3% are wasted, and 32.1% are underweight. Anemia affects 57% of women and 25% of men aged 15-49, with 18.7% of women and 16.2% of men having a low BMI, indicating undernutrition. At the same time, obesity rates are rising, with 24% of women and 22.9% of men being overweight. Malnutrition rates vary across regions and are higher in rural areas. The Indian government has launched various initiatives, such as Poshan Abhiyaan and the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, to combat malnutrition and improve overall nutrition.
This year’s theme of National Nutrition Week :
The theme for National Nutrition Week in 2024 is “Nutritious Diet for Everyone“, This theme emphasizes the importance of making informed food choices to ensure proper nutrition and highlights the role of a balanced diet in promoting overall health and well-being. The theme of National Nutrition Week encourages people to focus on consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods and adopting healthy eating habits to combat malnutrition and associated health issues.
Nutritional guidelines according to WHO :
1. Balanced Diet :
- Fruits and Vegetables: Consume at least 400 grams (five portions) of fruits and vegetables per day, excluding starchy vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, and cassava.
- Whole Grains and Legumes: Include a variety of whole grains (such as wheat, maize, and rice) and legumes (beans and lentils) in your diet.
- Protein: Incorporate lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, and plant-based proteins like beans, nuts, and seeds.
2. Limit Intake of Fats :
- Total Fat Intake: Should not exceed 30% of total daily energy intake. Focus on unsaturated fats (found in fish, avocados, nuts, and oils like olive, sunflower, and canola) instead of saturated fats (found in fatty meat, butter, palm oil, and cream) and trans fats (found in processed foods, baked goods, and fried items).
- Saturated Fat Intake: Should be less than 10% of total energy intake.
- Trans Fat Intake: Should be less than 1% of total energy intake.
3. Limit Sugar Consumption :
- Free Sugars: Limit free sugars to less than 10% of total daily energy intake.
- A further reduction to below 5% (approximately 25 grams or 6 teaspoons) per day would provide additional health benefits. Free sugars include those added to foods and drinks by manufacturers, cooks, or consumers, as well as sugars naturally present in honey, syrups, fruit juices, and fruit juice concentrates.
4. Reduce Salt Intake :
- Salt Consumption: Should be less than 5 grams (about one teaspoon) per day to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. It is also recommended to use iodized salt to ensure adequate iodine intake
5. Encourage Breastfeeding :
- Infants: Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months of life. After six months, infants should receive complementary foods in addition to continued breastfeeding for up to two years or beyond.
6. Stay Hydrated :
- Water Intake: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Limit sugar-sweetened beverages and avoid consuming energy drinks or excessive amounts of caffeinated drinks.
7. Avoid Harmful Use of Alcohol :
- Alcohol Consumption: If alcohol is consumed, it should be in moderation. There is no safe level of alcohol consumption; it contributes to various health risks.
8. Eat Safe and Hygienic Foods :
- Food Safety: Ensure that food is prepared and stored safely to prevent foodborne illnesses. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, cook meats thoroughly, and avoid cross-contamination during food preparation.
- Nutrition isn’t just about filling stomachs—it is about nurturing lives, fortifying bodies against disease, and ensuring that every member of the society has the opportunity to thrive. This week, as the country comes together, the message is urgent and heartfelt: embracing proper nutrition is not merely a choice, but a crucial step toward preserving their community’s future ,vitality and progress.
More on National Nutrition Week :
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