August 28, 2025

Get ready, India! From September 1st to 7th, we observe National Nutrition Week, a perfect time to spotlight the silent hunger lurking in urban diets. Despite better money and food access, many city folks miss crucial nutrients, making their meals empty but calories heavy. Shirly Daisy D, Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics expert, reveals a shocking truth: “Urban India still lacks certain essential nutrients in their daily diet, despite having better access to food because of their higher incomes. It is not a matter of eating too little – it's about what they are eating.” The biggest missing star? Protein! According to the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) 2020 report, a whopping 73% of urban Indians suffer from protein deficiency. Even more surprising—93% don’t know how much protein they really need daily. Protein isn’t just fancy talk—it builds muscles, strengthens bones, revs up metabolism, and keeps you fit. Yet so many stay unaware, turning this into a nutritional emergency. And here’s a spicy fact from Shirly: “Around 56.4 per cent of diseases find their root in the dietary habits.” So, what’s missing on the Indian plate? Shirly lists the top 4 nutritional villains: 1. Protein: The muscle and immunity builder. But sadly, many rely too much on rice and wheat, which don’t pack a strong protein punch. 2. Iron and Vitamin B12: Mostly vegetarians and vegans face this gap, affecting energy and nerve health. 3. Vitamin D: Our indoor, couch-friendly lifestyle means bones and immunity don’t get their sunshine boost. 4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Less fish and more processed oils stunt this important nutrient's supply. Now the big question—how to fill these gaps? Shirly offers 5 spicy solutions: - Choose smart supplements rich in protein to back up your meals. - Grab multivitamins loaded with Iron and Vitamin B12, especially if you’re a vegetarian or vegan. - Don’t skip Vitamin D and B12 supplements if your diet lacks animal products. - Boost Omega-3 by eating fish, nuts, plant oils or by taking omega-3 soft gel capsules. - Always consider a doctor’s advice for a personalized nutrition plan. This Nutrition Week, take a bold pledge to eat well with all the must-have macro and micronutrients. Your body will thank you with energy, strength, and good health. Remember, nutrition is the secret spice that keeps diseases at bay and adds zing to life! (Note: This article provides information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any health concerns.)

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Tags: National nutrition week, Protein deficiency, Urban india, Nutritional gaps, Healthy eating, Dietary supplements,