The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has released a shocking report regarding eating habits. In this report, ICMR has placed many common foods in the category of 'ultra-processed' food. These foods also include everyday items like bread, butter, and cooking oil.
According to the ICSR report, ultra-processed foods usually contain high amounts of fat, sugar, and salt, while being low in fiber and other nutrients. Excessive consumption of ultra-processed food can increase the risk of diseases like obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Which foods have been considered ultra-processed in the ICMR report?
According to the report, the category of ultra-processed food includes many types of foods, some of which are as follows:
Commercial bread
Breakfast cereals
Cakes, Pastries and Biscuits
Chips and Fries
Jams, Jellies and Sauces
Commercially prepared ice cream
Protein powder
Peanut butter
Soy Chunks and Tofu
Frozen food with additives
Commercially prepared cheese
Packaged meat
Vegetable oil
Refined sugar
Salt
It has also been told in the report that many culinary ingredients like refined oil and flour also fall in the category of ultra-processed food.
ICMR advice
ICMR has advised people to reduce the intake of ultra-processed food in their diet. Instead, increase the intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and pulses. Also, pay more attention to cooking at home.
Is it necessary to completely remove everyday foods?
It has not been made clear in the report that the food used daily should be completely stopped. They can be consumed in balanced quantity and cooked properly. For example, bread made from wheat flour at home can be consumed, while consumption of packaged bread purchased from the market should be reduced.
Study Conclusion
This report of ICMR calls for reconsidering eating and drinking habits. We should try to include fresh and less processed food in our diet. With this, we can take a positive step towards staying healthy.
(PC: Freepik)
