Diet, lifestyle and chronic disease

Processed foods are high in additives, fat and sugar, and low in fibre. A good diet and lifestyle can control chronic diseases and delay their onset.

Urban Indian diets have changed: more fat and refined sugar, less fibre, fewer vitamins and minerals, and, among non-vegetarians, more animal protein.

These changes are linked with obesity, colon cancer, diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. Blood pressure is raised by salty processed foods, too little potassium and calcium, inactivity and stress.

Evidence from research:

• in a study of 20,000 men, eating fish once a week was linked to a much lower risk of sudden cardiac death, thanks to fish's omega-3 fatty acids;
• in a study of 42,000 women, diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy went with a longer life.

Clinical nutritionists can counsel individuals, and groups such as schools and colleges, to prevent these problems. Less fat, sugar and salt; more fibre and activity.