Food Challenges: The Nutrition Paradox in India, From Exporting Milk and Grains to Growing Malnutrition

Food Challenges: India, a country identified as one of the top exporters of milk and grains, is also dealing with malnutrition among its citizens. Nutritional issues in the country emerge in two ways: undernutrition and overnutrition. Previously, heart disease, diabetes, circulatory diseases, dyslipidemia, and fatty liver were thought to be caused mostly by overnutrition. However, new research reveals that greater access to food in both urban and rural locations has reduced inequities, resulting in similar calorie intake among most people. Despite this, undernutrition remains a major concern, impacted by social and financial factors. 

Malnutrition in India

Undernutrition also has long-term consequences, including a relationship to noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes and some malignancies. For example, a child delivered with a low birth weight due to maternal malnutrition is more likely to develop diabetes and other health problems later in life. Addressing such issues necessitates a multifaceted approach to health and weight management. While modest weight loss (approximately 5-7% of total body weight) can dramatically improve metabolic health and lower the risk of diabetes, hypertension, and fatty liver, losing weight merely for cosmetic reasons may not always result in beneficial health effects. As a result, prioritizing sustainable, health-oriented measures is critical.