ICMR urges avoiding protein supplements, limiting salt, sugar
The Indian Council of Medical Research has urged to avoid protein supplements for building body mass and has recommended restricting salt intake, minimising sugar and ultra-processed foods and reading information on food labels to make informed and healthy food choices.
The Hyderabad-based National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) under the apex health research body on Wednesday released revised ‘Dietary Guidelines for Indians (DGIs)’ to meet the requirements of essential nutrients and prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
The DGIs have been drafted by a multi-disciplinary committee of experts led by Dr Hemalatha R., director, ICMR-NIN and have undergone several scientific reviews. Seventeen guidelines have been listed in it.
In the DGIs, the NIN stated that prolonged intake of large amounts of protein powders or consumption of high protein concentrate has been associated with potential dangers such as bone mineral loss and kidney damage. It also stated that sugar should be less than 5% of total energy intake.