Ludhiana, March 12th, 2024: Proteins are one of the essential components of a healthy diet and play a pivotal role in facilitating several functions within the body. According to a survey, 73 percent of Indians do not consume the recommended daily amount of protein, and over 90 percent are unaware of this necessity. To educate consumers on the importance of including optimal amount of protein in the diet, the Almond Board of California, today, hosted a session around ‘A natural approach to mitigating India’s protein problem’.
The event was held at Hotel Park Inn, with sessions featured Popular Punjabi actress Molina Sodhi, as well as MBBS and Nutritionist, Dr Rohini Patil, and was moderated by Jasnoor. The discussion at the event focused on the lack of understanding regarding the sources of protein among Indian households and the importance of adequate protein intake in maintaining health. India faces a concerning issue of protein deficiency, with many individuals not meeting the required daily intake1. The recommended protein intake for an average adult in India is 0.8 gram per kilogram of body weight. However, the average consumption typically rests at about 0.6 grams per kilogram of body weight2.
The misconceptions surrounding the sources of protein, daily needs, and its function in numerous biological processes within our body were some of the key discussion points during the session. Some of the misconceptions included the belief that vegetarians lack sufficient protein sources, that protein causes weight gain, and that it's hard to digest. However, the facts are that protein consumption can help to prevent weight gain, aid in feeling satiated, and is beneficial for muscle health.
Dr Rohini Patil, MBBS and Nutritionist said, "Everyone's body and fitness needs are different, influenced by factors such as metabolism, activity level, and personal goals. A balanced diet is key to achieving holistic health. Adding protein is crucial and beneficial in the long run. One easy way to increase protein intake is by snacking on almonds daily; they're healthy, convenient, and packed with protein. A 30g serving of almonds provides 6.3g of protein. Additionally, almonds are rich in nutrients such as zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin E, and Vitamin B2. Other protein-rich foods include nuts, seeds, pulses, dals, eggs, chicken, and fish. For those seeking plant-based protein sources, options like soybeans, pulses, dals, and nuts such as almonds are available."
Talking about importance of adding protein in daily diet popular Punjabi actress Molina Sodhi said, "Almonds are my go-to health heroes. Packed with protein, they keep me energized throughout my hectic days on set. Including almonds in my daily diet is like giving myself a nutritious boost. They're not just a snack; they're a powerhouse of goodness. In the hustle of showbiz, I've learned that true beauty comes from within, and almonds play a big role in that. It's not complicated—it's just about making smart choices. I always keep a handful of almonds in my bag as they are a great source of protein and a healthy snack option. Almonds are not only delicious but also provide sustained energy throughout the day. Incorporating almonds into my diet has been a game-changer for me!"
One survey revealed that many households in India lack awareness of the importance of protein as a vital macronutrient. The study, primarily involving mothers, found that most of them lacked an understanding of the essential role of protein and the reasons for consuming it. In this context, access to good quality protein becomes an important lever for achieving a balanced diet for India’s population.
There is indeed a crucial need to raise awareness about the types of proteins to consume, appropriate portion sizes, the significance of macronutrients, and readily available sources of protein. It is essential to ensure that individuals meet their daily nutrient requirements to maintain good health. By fostering collective awareness and encouraging informed choices, we can effectively address the issue of protein deficiency in the country. Through education and accessible resources, people can learn how to incorporate protein-rich foods into their diets, leading to improved overall health and well-being.
