Indians do not consume sufficient protein and the daily intake of this nutrient is much lower than the recommended amount. Where the Indian Council of Medical Research has recommended a dietary allowance of minimum 0.8 gms per day, the average protein intake is only 0.6 gms per day.
A survey conducted in 2017 revealed that India has the lowest average protein consumption as compared to other Asian countries as well as developed nations. Indian diets are primarily cereal-based, and 60% of protein is derived from cereals that have poor digestibility and quality.
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Serious protein deficiency can cause swelling, skin degeneration, increase the severity of infections and stunt growth in children. It can also cause muscle decay and increase the risk of bone fractures.
Here are some food items you must include in your diet to improve protein intake
The Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations has called for a focus on an economic stimulus to provide access to nutritious food to the needy during the pandemic. NITI Aayog has also been pushing to include protein-rich foods in the public distribution system due to the pandemic.
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