Most Indians think that protein deficiency is not an important concern. The most common myth around protein is that it is only meant for body-builders or gym-goers. Another protein myth is that protein is the only nutrient that is difficult to digest by the body. Some feel that cutting on protein is a good way to lose weight.
A survey by the Indian Market Research Bureau (IMRB) to ascertain the levels of protein deficiency and awareness about protein in India showed 73 per cent of urban rich is protein deficient with 93 per cent of them unaware about their daily protein requirements.
As Indians, protein requirements can be met by spreading them evenly across meals, says Aditi Mehrotra, a diet consultant. This would mean combining dairy, pulses and legumes, sustainable grains such as millets, nuts and oilseeds, along with egg and poultry to give a perfect protein intake for day, she adds.
According to another nutritionist, even though Indians have shown an improvement in education levels and poverty elevation, very few are aware that body needs approximately one gram of protein for every kilogram of body weight every day. It is unfortunate that prosperity, which should have brought in awareness and a shift in nutritional culture of Indians, is highly missing in them. Other westernised countries have responded very well in terms of awareness of a rich protein diet, he added.
