A serious discussion related to nutrition is going on in India. Along with vitamin D and B12 deficiency, the country is now also facing widespread protein deficiency. Despite increasing fitness awareness, gym culture and popularity of protein supplements, a large population in urban India is not consuming adequate protein.
According to a recent survey, a joint study by dairy brand Country Delight and Local Circle found that 60 percent of people in urban areas of India are suffering from protein deficiency. The survey also revealed that only 4 out of 10 people include high-quality protein sources like pulses, eggs, milk, cheese, fish or nuts in their diet daily.
Nutrition experts say the traditional focus of food in India has been on filling the stomach, and not on balanced nutrition. For this reason, carbohydrate-based food remains prominent, while the amount of protein remains relatively low. A large number of people do not even know how much protein they need every day and how important a role it plays in the body’s immunity, growth and recovery.
Arjun Patel, founder of Not Rocket Science, has said on this topic, “The fact that this threat has not been addressed yet is really worrying because the common man may never realize that chronic protein deficiency can gradually affect strength, energy and overall health without immediate symptoms.”
He believes that cultural eating habits, limited awareness and the perception that protein is only for athletes or bodybuilders are exacerbating the problem.
Although the market for protein powder and protein-fortified snacks is growing in urban and affluent sections, but according to experts this is not the solution to the root problem. High-quality protein sources such as eggs, dairy, fish and nuts are expensive for low-income families. Supplements are also often unnecessary or expensive.
Experts suggest making small but effective changes to the diet if culturally acceptable like including eggs daily, consuming pulses with cereals, and making soy, cheese or tofu a part of regular meals.
It is important to make protein affordable and accessible and to bring about a change in the eating behavior of people. Protein is an essential nutrient not just for gym goers but for every person.
Solving this challenge before it becomes a major problem requires more than product innovation. It requires education, culturally appropriate solutions, and making protein a habit rather than an occasional treat.
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