Health facilities to display "Sugar and Oil" warning boards
The National Health Mission's (NHM) plan is part of a playbook to combat obesity and curtail unhealthy eating habits.
An alarming recent report in the Lancet predicted obesity in India could jump from 180 million individuals in 2021 to 449 million by 2050, making it the country with the highest obesity burden globally after the US and China.
Another Lancet study from 2022 revealed that India had 12.5 million obese children in 2022, a significant increase from 0.4 million in 1990. The Centre has asked the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to come up with an ideal nutrition diet for Indians and roll out a nationwide screening programme for measuring obesity among school children.
'Our nation is experiencing a rapid rise in obesity and associated lifestyle disorders, particularly in urban areas and among children. There is an urgent need to combat obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCD) through healthier habits and reduction in oil and sugar consumption," said a health ministry official in a letter to States/UTs, seen by Mint.
"In view of this, States/UTs are requested to take proactive measures to ensure prominent display of 'oil and sugar boards' in health facilities such as Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Health and Wellness Centres), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), District Health Centres (DHCs) and sub-divisional and district offices and medical colleges,' the letter added.
Beyond the new warning boards, the health ministry is implementing a multi-pronged approach to combat unhealthy eating, focusing heavily on sensitization and education at the community and school levels.
The ministry has specifically called for school teachers and children to be educated on healthy diets and reduced sugar and oil intake. This will be integrated into existing health screening and counseling activities.
The initiative extends to adolescents, with a directive to sensitize peer educators and healthcare providers at 'Adolescent Friendly Health Clinics (AFHCs)'.
To amplify this message at the grassroots level, the government plans to leverage community engagement platforms under the National Health Mission (NHM).
This includes utilizing women's groups, other civilian groups, and community platforms to conduct discussions and practical demonstrations on healthy cooking and dietary habits.
This 'comprehensive strategy' aims to embed awareness about healthy eating into various facets of daily life, from schools to community gatherings.
The ministry is also asking for more cooperation with the education and women and child development departments to take this initiative even further.
Dr Rajeev R. Jayadevan, public health expert and past president of Indian Medical Association (IMA), Cochin, said that hospital canteen signboards currently are no different from those at a restaurant, simply listing items and prices.
But the government is now rolling out a significant behaviour change strategy to change that. These new boards won't ban popular cultural foods; instead, they will highlight the hidden sugar and fat within them.
The next crucial steps, according to Jayadevan, is to expand this initiative nationwide, integrate healthier food options and could lead to substantial long-term health benefits. 'Increased awareness about the dangers of excessive sugar and salt intake will significantly reduce the disease burden in the coming decades.'
Queries sent to the health ministry spokesperson remained unanswered.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indian Express
3 hours ago
- Indian Express
Food scientist reveals two things they would never eat (one is vegetarian)
In an era where Instagram floods us with advice, distinguishing reliable guidance from fads has become increasingly challenging. Recently, a food scientist shared two foods they would never eat — ground meat and raw sprouts — sparking widespread debate online. Curious about the validity of these claims, we turned to an authority in the field, Dr Kiran Soni, Head of the Department of Nutrition & Health at Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida, to find out if they hold up. A post shared by Hydroxide (@ Raw sprouts, often praised for their high nutrient content, also pose potential health risks. 'While sprouts are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fibre, they grow in warm, humid conditions ideal for bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli to thrive,' notes Dr Soni. This risk is especially concerning for vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Dr Soni suggests using cooked sprouts to neutralise harmful bacteria while retaining much of their nutritional value. 'It's a simple step that ensures safety without compromising health benefits,' she adds. She recommends other nutrient-dense options like leafy greens, seeds, and legumes for those who wish to avoid sprouts altogether. A post shared by Hydroxide (@ Ground meat is a staple in many kitchens, serving as the foundation for dishes such as burgers, meatballs, and tacos. However, according to Dr Soni, it comes with significant safety concerns. 'The grinding process increases the surface area of the meat, allowing harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella to infiltrate more easily,' she explains. If ground meat isn't cooked to the proper temperature, these pathogens can survive and cause serious foodborne illnesses. Dr Soni advises that ground meat should always be cooked thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of at least 71°C (160°F). She also underscores the importance of proper handling: 'Store ground meat at the correct temperature, avoid cross-contamination in the kitchen, and consume it promptly to minimise risks.' While these foods carry risks, Dr Soni emphasises that proper handling and preparation can mitigate most concerns. 'It's not about outright banning foods but about understanding how to consume them safely,' she says. Her advice aligns with broader food safety practices: Navigating food choices in a world flooded with information requires discernment. While ground meat and raw sprouts may pose risks, understanding how to handle and prepare them safely allows you to enjoy a varied and nutritious diet. As Dr Soni aptly says, 'It's all about informed choices for better health.'
New Indian Express
4 hours ago
- New Indian Express
KAPV med college & MGMGH to be renovated at Rs 4 crore cost
TIRUCHY: The state government has recently sanctioned `4.05 crore to carry out renovation work at the KAP Viswanatham (KAPV) Government Medical College and the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH). Sources said the funds have been sourced under the National Health Mission (NHM) and Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS). A sum of Rs 1 crore each will be used to upgrade the hostels. The remaining sum will be used to revamp the auditorium, lecture halls, and buildings in MGMGH, sources in the district health department said 'We've received the GO regarding this, funds are yet to be released. Once that happens, PWD will commence work in phases,' a senior official said.
Time of India
13 hours ago
- Time of India
‘Stop diarrhoea' drive lays stress on prevention
Lucknow: To save children under the age of 5 from diarrhoea, the state health and family welfare department has launched a 'Stop Diarrhoea Campaign' across districts. Launched on July 16 and running till July 31, it aims to raise awareness. On Monday, the department reviewed the progress of the drive in which awareness is being spread through mobile vans equipped with posters, banners and audiovisual messages that highlight the causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment of diarrhoea. Mission director, National Health Mission, UP, Dr Pinky Jowel, said the theme for this year's campaign is "Prevention of Diarrhoea, Cleanliness, and Self-Care with ORS". "The objective is not only to prevent diarrhoea but also to promote the use of ORS and zinc tablets while fostering a culture of health awareness," she said. "Key preventive measures include access to clean drinking water, improved sanitation, proper hand washing with soap, exclusive breastfeeding, adequate nutrition and timely vaccination," she said. General manager, Child Health Programme, NHM, UP, Dr Milind Vardhan, said if a child experiences three or more loose stools in a day, it should be considered a case of diarrhoea. Executive Director, PSI India, Mukesh Sharma, said the risk of diarrhoea peaks during the monsoon . TNN
