Unpacking India’s Nutrition Challenge: Are We Falling Behind?

How often do you skip meals because of a busy schedule? Maybe you’ve grabbed fast food on the way home because cooking felt too exhausting. You’re not alone. In our fast-paced lives, we often put our health on the back burner. Balancing work and family duties leaves little time for meal planning. While quick meals may satisfy our hunger, they often lack essential vitamins and minerals that our bodies need to function properly.

It’s alarming that nearly two billion people globally suffer from micronutrient deficiencies, with a significant number living in India. Recent surveys show that most Indian diets only provide about 70% of daily nutritional needs, leaving a considerable gap. For instance, many people fall short on iron, vitamin B12, calcium, and vitamins C and D.

These deficiencies can affect our daily lives in subtle ways. Feeling tired or down? It could be due to missing essential nutrients. A survey highlighted that 81% of people report feeling drained during the day. Not just that, unhealthy eating habits can lead to a noticeable drop in workplace productivity. People with poor diets are 66% more likely to experience productivity issues compared to those who eat healthier foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Understanding what vitamins and minerals we need daily is a key step toward improving our nutrition. Consulting a nutritionist can help us see if our diets meet these needs. Educational initiatives in schools and workplaces can empower people to recognize nutritional gaps and make informed choices. A diet that includes a variety of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and proteins is essential. In cases where diets don’t provide enough nutrients, supplements can be beneficial.

To really tackle the nutrient gap, we need a comprehensive approach. This includes not only a balanced diet and possible supplementation but also lifestyle changes. Staying hydrated is crucial for digestion and nutrient absorption, yet many struggle to drink enough water amidst their busy lives. Regular exercise helps our bodies use nutrients better and boosts metabolism. Practicing mindfulness can also keep us committed to healthy habits, helping us flourish in all aspects of our lives.

By making conscious choices even when life gets hectic, we can close the nutrient gap and support our well-being and energy levels.

This article is authored by Sandeep Verma, country head, India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, Bayer Consumer Health.