Current Nutrition Challenges in India: How They Impact Your Health and What You Can Do

If you have ever felt constantly tired, struggled with weight issues, or worried about your child’s health, you are not alone. Many people across India face serious nutrition-related challenges that affect their well-being. While some struggle with undernutrition and deficiencies, others battle obesity and lifestyle diseases. Understanding these issues can help you make better choices for yourself and your family.

How Nutrition Problems Affect You

Are You or Your Child Underweight or Malnourished?

If your child looks smaller for their age, frequently falls sick, or lacks energy, they may be suffering from malnutrition. According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5), 35.5% of children under five are stunted, 19.3% are wasted, and 32.1% are underweight (MoHFW, 2021). Poor maternal nutrition, improper infant feeding, and limited food availability are key causes.

Do You Feel Weak or Tired All the Time?

If you often feel exhausted, dizzy, or have trouble concentrating, you could have a micronutrient deficiency. The Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS) 2019 found that 41% of preschool children and 24% of school-age children in India suffer from anemia (ICMR, 2019). A lack of iron, vitamin A, or iodine in your diet can weaken your immune system and make everyday tasks feel harder.

Are You Struggling with Weight Gain and Health Problems?

If you are gaining weight despite not eating much or have been diagnosed with diabetes or high blood pressure, your diet and lifestyle might be the reason. NFHS-5 data shows that 24% of women and 22.9% of men in India are overweight or obese (MoHFW, 2021). Poor diet choices, lack of exercise, and increased consumption of processed foods are major contributors.

Is It Difficult to Afford Nutritious Food?

Many families rely heavily on rice, wheat, and potatoes, but a diet without enough proteins, fruits, and vegetables leads to long-term health problems. The Global Hunger Index 2023 ranks India 111 out of 125 countries, highlighting serious food insecurity (GHI, 2023). Limited access to diverse and nutritious food affects physical and mental health.

Why Are These Problems Happening?

• Low Income and High Food Costs: Many people cannot afford nutritious foods like dairy, meat, and fruits.
• Traditional Eating Habits: Heavy reliance on carbohydrates with little protein or vitamins.
• Lack of Awareness: Many people do not know what a balanced diet looks like.
• Poor Implementation of Nutrition Programs: Government schemes do not always reach the people who need them most.

How You Can Improve Your Health

• Take Advantage of Free Government Nutrition Programs
• If you are pregnant or have young children, enroll in Poshan Abhiyan, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), and the Mid-Day Meal Scheme to get access to nutritious food.
• Check if your family qualifies for free fortified foods like rice, wheat, and salt enriched with iron and vitamins.

Make Small but Effective Dietary Changes

• Add lentils, eggs, dairy, and nuts to your diet for protein.
• If fresh fruits and vegetables are expensive, try seasonal or locally grown options.
• Reduce packaged and processed foods to lower the risk of obesity and diabetes.

Learn More About Nutrition and Spread Awareness

• If you have children, teach them the importance of eating a variety of foods.
• Start a small home garden to grow fresh vegetables and herbs.
• Reduce reliance on fast food and encourage home-cooked meals.

Stay Active and Reduce Health Risks

• A simple 30-minute walk every day can help manage weight and improve heart health.
• Reduce sugary drinks and junk food to lower the risk of diabetes.
• If you or a family member is overweight, seek medical advice on healthier eating and exercise habits.

Seek Medical Help When Needed

• If you feel extremely weak or fatigued, get tested for anemia and other deficiencies.
• Pregnant women should take iron and folic acid supplements to ensure a healthy baby.
• If diagnosed with high blood pressure or diabetes, follow a nutrition plan suited for your condition.
  

You Have the Power to Change Your Health
These nutrition challenges are real, but they are not impossible to overcome. By making informed choices, using available resources, and spreading awareness, you can take control of your health and help others around you. A healthier India starts with you—take the first step today!