According to a new study, the intake of nutrients necessary for good cardiovascular and kidney health is sub-optimal among the population in North India, which has shown excessive salt consumption exceeding recommended levels, inadequate potassium intake, and protein intake below the recommended daily allowance are some of the issues.
The findings of the research conducted by researchers from the George Institute for Global Health India, in collaboration with the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, underscored the necessity for individualized dietary modifications to mitigate the dangers of common non-communicable illnesses.
The investigation focuses on the intake of sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and protein, which play a role in reducing the risk of contracting non-communicable ailments like hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and persistent kidney disease, which are fast-growing health issues in the country.
The study, which was published in the peer-reviewed journal Frontiers in Nutrition, involved over 400 adults, including both healthy individuals and those suffering from early-stage chronic kidney disease. Nutrition intake was assessed using a 24-hour urinary excretion analysis. Errors related to memory or estimation of portion sizes are less likely to occur with this method, making it more reliable than dietary recall. The measures have been taken to guarantee the validity of the urine samples for analyzing.
Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease are all associated with excessive salt consumption and inadequate potassium intake.
Men had higher intakes of nutrients than women did.
A lack of adequate nutrition poses a significant threat for non-communicable illnesses, which pose a significant public health hazard. It is important to know what nutrients people are getting to help prevent and manage diseases in India because people consume different foods. Prof. Vivekanand Jha, the Executive Director of the institute and a neurologist, stated that the elevated intake of salt and low intake of potassium indicate the necessity of devising interventions aimed at both individuals and societies.
The study also emphasizes the importance of accurate dietary assessments in order to provide personalised advice and develop effective policies.
Jha emphasized the necessity of public education campaigns, individual counseling, and food policy reforms, noting that the study revealed the necessity of having dietary guidelines that are specific to the locale. We need to do something to correct the imbalances in nutrients and encourage people to eat healthier by increasing variety.
The risks of non-communicable diseases were reduced by 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.
A healthier future for North Indian communities can be forged by taking proactive steps to fight NCDs.
The Department of Biotechnology, New Delhi, India Science and Engineering Research Board, New Delhi and the Department of Biotechnology-Welcome Trust, India Alliance supported this project.
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