Protein is the actual worker of cell. Protein majorly play an important role in growth, development and repairing of the body. It’s an essential macronutrient for our body, it’s a must nutrient in our diet.
But somehow do Indian include a proper amount of protein as required for the body?
Mostly our diet is full of carbohydrates and fibres, which are also essential but deprive of protein.
I’ve heard how cereals constitute the bulk of protein in Indian diets, although their nutritional value doesn’t seem comparable as meat or dairy sources. Proteins like egg, meat, milk, and pulses typically stands out to a considerably smaller percentage than that of cereals, in particular the countryside.
This is because protein is very important for growth and body repair, but many Indian meals are low in protein and high in carbs. We need more awareness about adding good protein sources like dal, paneer, eggs, or sprouts in daily meals.
In Indian household the average protein intake is low as compared to the desired limit. This is mostly due to lacking in knowledge about protein and fibre intake in diet. Due to insufficient protein intake individuals have to face many problems like muscle atrophy, low immunity, fatigue,etc.
To meet minimum protein requirements we should including cereals, sprouts, paneer, eggs, meat, fish in regular diet.
Not taking enough protein-body can start showing several signs both physical and mental- because protein is essential for muscle repair, immunity, hormones, enzymes and overall health.
In our indian household, the protein is compared to the desired intake of protein on a daily basis.This may be due to lacking the knowledge about the well planned diet statistics and energy we gain from different food stuffs in calories.
We have to be aware household women about the balanced diet and its benigits to them that they can provide a maintained and nutrient rich good to there family.
You’re absolutely right. In most Indian households, the focus is mainly on carbohydrates like rice, chapati, and potatoes. Protein-rich foods like pulses, legumes, dairy, eggs, or meats are often eaten in smaller amounts or not regularly. This creates a gap between what’s required and what we actually eat. I think there’s a need to spread awareness about affordable protein sources, especially plant-based ones, so every family can improve their daily intake without spending too much.
Indian diet mostly contain carbohydrates followed by fats. We do eat lentils and legumes along with rice/chapathi, but not every household takes this combination always. It is very important to take lentils/legumes as protein intakes along with rice/chapati for a balanced meal. To get the optimal protein amount per day, one can have low-fat-milk, moderate amount of low-fat-dairy, egg white, red kidney beans, chickpeas, beans etc. Besides, taking chicken twice a week in moderate amounts is also beneficial.
Protein is often underrated in Indian households, where carb-heavy meals dominate. Many people unknowingly fall short of their daily protein needs, especially vegetarians. Simple additions like lentils, paneer, eggs, or nuts can make a big difference.
It’s not about expensive supplements just making mindful choices in daily meals to support better health, strength, and immunity.
I think Indian people should focus more on protein cause , in Indian major of the population is vegetarian which have low protein soo it’s better to focus on that
I’ve noticed in my own home too. We focus so much on rice, roti, and veggies, but protein often gets sidelined unless someone’s actively into fitness or aware of nutrition. I think we really need more awareness about affordable protein sources like dals, paneer, eggs, sprouts, and even millets. Small changes can make a big difference.
In the USA, an average American consumes 40 to 50% more protein and then required because protein markets are very active and they able to sell the idea.
On the contrary, Indians consume much less protein than required. When you talk to them about proteins, they say with conviction that daals ( pulses and legumes) supply them enough proteins. The problem is that for one gram of protein, these pulses give you 5 g of carb. So we end up eating a lot of sugar in order to take some protein and then we believe that OK this is good enough.
So some education needs to kick into this matter.
Note: on an average and adult needs one gram of protein per kilo gram body weight per day.
Many Indians lack sufficient protein in their diet which leads to potential health issues. Adding protein-rich foods like curd, chickpeas, paneer, fish, and eggs can help. Aim for 0.8-1 gram of protein per kg body weight daily. Consult a dietitian for personalized protein recommendations.