India’s dinner plates may be comforting, but they’re turning into a silent health hazard. A new nationwide study by the Indian Council of Medical Research–India Diabetes (ICMR–INDIAB) has revealed that the average Indian diet, overloaded with carbohydrates and deficient in protein, is driving the country’s alarming rise in obesity and diabetes cases.&nbsp;The extensive research surveyed over 1.2 lakh adults across 36 states and union territories, mapping how regional food patterns contribute to metabolic risks. The results paint a worrying picture: 62% of daily calories consumed by Indians come from carbohydrates, among the highest in the world.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/wait-what-night-shifts-linked-to-higher-kidney-stone-risk-says-study-1759338032620">Wait, what? Night shifts linked to higher kidney stone risk, says study</a><h2>Carb overload</h2>&nbsp;Most of these carbohydrates come from low-quality sources such as white rice, refined wheat, and added sugars. The study found clear regional patterns- white rice is dominant in the South, East, and Northeast, while wheat is the primary staple in North and Central India. Nutrient-rich millets, once a traditional part of Indian diets, are now mainstays in only three states- Karnataka, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/amitabh-bachchan-virat-kohli-and-more-famous-personalities-who-follow-a-vegetarian-diet-1759305433570">Amitabh Bachchan to Virat Kohli: Famous people who follow a vegetarian diet</a>&nbsp;Excessive sugar intake adds to the problem. Twenty-one states and union territories consume sugar above the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended limit of 5% of total calories. This, coupled with refined carbs, is directly linked to the rising incidence of diabetes, prediabetes, and obesity across age groups.&nbsp;<h2>Protein Deficiency</h2>The report also revealed a significant protein gap in Indian diets- only 12% of daily calories come from protein, compared to the recommended 15–20%. Most of this comes from plant-based sources like pulses, lentils, and cereals, while dairy contributes just 2% and animal protein only 1% of daily energy.&nbsp;Interestingly, the Northeast region recorded the highest protein intake (13.6%), largely due to its inclusion of fish and meat in daily meals. Yet, protein deficiency remains widespread nationwide, contributing to muscle loss, poor metabolism, and insulin resistance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/dehydrated-and-stressed-out-study-says-the-two-are-linked-know-how-1759245716351">Dehydrated and stressed out? Study says the two are linked; know how</a><h2>Fat quality matters too</h2>While overall fat intake in India remains within global recommendations, the type of fat consumed raises concern. The study found that saturated fat intake exceeded healthy limits in nearly all states, except Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur. These fats found in ghee, butter, and palm oil can increase cholesterol and heart disease risk.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the consumption of healthier fats, such as monounsaturated and omega-3 fats from nuts, seeds, and fish, remains low across the country. Experts warn that this imbalance, coupled with high-carb diets, worsens metabolic health.&nbsp;<h2>Small dietary tweaks for big health benefits</h2>The ICMR team found that even a small dietary adjustment can make a significant impact. Replacing just 5% of daily calories from carbohydrates with plant or dairy proteins could lower the risk of diabetes and prediabetes. Substituting with fish or egg protein also showed positive results, but swapping carbs for red meat or fats did not yield the same benefits.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/does-seed-cycling-really-work-doctor-explains-the-hormone-balancing-trend-1759068666924">Does seed cycling really work? Doctor explains the hormone-balancing trend</a><h2>Rethinking the Indian plate</h2>Experts suggest that achieving a healthier diet doesn’t require drastic measures, just smarter choices:&nbsp;<ul><li>Cut down on refined carbs like white rice and maida.</li><li>Diversify grains, include unpolished millets and brown rice.</li><li>Add a daily mix of pulses, lentils, paneer, and curd.</li><li>Replace ghee and butter with healthier oils such as mustard or groundnut oil.</li><li>Limit added sugar to less than 5% of daily calorie intake.</li></ul>&nbsp;

As per the recent study by ICMR, the regular Indian meals most people eat are overloaded with carbohydrates and lack in protein which can increase the risk of obesity and diabetes. 

India’s dinner plates may be comforting, but they’re turning into a silent health hazard. A new nationwide study by the Indian Council of Medical Research–India Diabetes (ICMR–INDIAB) has revealed that the average Indian diet, overloaded with carbohydrates and deficient in protein, is driving the country’s alarming rise in obesity and diabetes cases. The extensive research surveyed over 1.2 lakh adults across 36 states and union territories, mapping how regional food patterns contribute to metabolic risks. The results paint a worrying picture: 62% of daily calories consumed by Indians come from carbohydrates, among the highest in the world. Also Read: Wait, what? Night shifts linked to higher kidney stone risk, says study Carb overload Most of these carbohydrates come from low-quality sources such as white rice, refined wheat, and added sugars. The study found clear regional patterns- white rice is dominant in the South, East, and Northeast, while wheat is the primary staple in North and Central India. Nutrient-rich millets, once a traditional part of Indian diets, are now mainstays in only three states- Karnataka, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Also Read: Amitabh Bachchan to Virat Kohli: Famous people who follow a vegetarian diet Excessive sugar intake adds to the problem. Twenty-one states and union territories consume sugar above the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended limit of 5% of total calories. This, coupled with refined carbs, is directly linked to the rising incidence of diabetes, prediabetes, and obesity across age groups. Protein Deficiency The report also revealed a significant protein gap in Indian diets- only 12% of daily calories come from protein, compared to the recommended 15–20%. Most of this comes from plant-based sources like pulses, lentils, and cereals, while dairy contributes just 2% and animal protein only 1% of daily energy. Interestingly, the Northeast region recorded the highest protein intake (13.6%), largely due to its inclusion of fish and meat in daily meals. Yet, protein deficiency remains widespread nationwide, contributing to muscle loss, poor metabolism, and insulin resistance. Also Read: Dehydrated and stressed out? Study says the two are linked; know how Fat quality matters too While overall fat intake in India remains within global recommendations, the type of fat consumed raises concern. The study found that saturated fat intake exceeded healthy limits in nearly all states, except Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur. These fats found in ghee, butter, and palm oil can increase cholesterol and heart disease risk. Meanwhile, the consumption of healthier fats, such as monounsaturated and omega-3 fats from nuts, seeds, and fish, remains low across the country. Experts warn that this imbalance, coupled with high-carb diets, worsens metabolic health. Small dietary tweaks for big health benefits The ICMR team found that even a small dietary adjustment can make a significant impact. Replacing just 5% of daily calories from carbohydrates with plant or dairy proteins could lower the risk of diabetes and prediabetes. Substituting with fish or egg protein also showed positive results, but swapping carbs for red meat or fats did not yield the same benefits. Also Read: Does seed cycling really work? Doctor explains the hormone-balancing trend Rethinking the Indian plate Experts suggest that achieving a healthier diet doesn’t require drastic measures, just smarter choices: Cut down on refined carbs like white rice and maida. Diversify grains, include unpolished millets and brown rice. Add a daily mix of pulses, lentils, paneer, and curd. Replace ghee and butter with healthier oils such as mustard or groundnut oil. Limit added sugar to less than 5% of daily calorie intake.

As per the recent study by ICMR, the regular Indian meals most people eat are overloaded with carbohydrates and lack in protein which can increase the risk of obesity and diabetes.&nbsp;

Is India eating its way to obesity and diabetes? ICMR study warns

Do you often feel tense, restless, or anxious for no apparent reason? A new study suggests that the culprit may be as simple as your water intake. Researchers have found that dehydration can trigger a surge in cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, making you feel stressed even when there’s no immediate threat.&nbsp;<h2>The study that connects stress and hydration</h2>The findings, published in the Journal of Applied Physiology on September 3, 2025, reveal that people who don’t drink enough water experience significantly higher spikes in cortisol during stressful situations. Participants who consumed less than 1.5 litres of fluids daily showed over 50% greater cortisol levels compared to those who were adequately hydrated.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/dussehra-2025-why-is-ravana-not-burnt-but-worshipped-in-these-places-of-india-1759157217593">Dussehra 2025: Why is Ravana not burnt but worshipped in these places of India?</a>&nbsp;Interestingly, the under-hydrated group did not necessarily feel thirstier, but lab tests revealed darker urine, higher levels of vasopressin (a water-regulating hormone), and exaggerated stress responses. Vasopressin, while essential for conserving water, also stimulates cortisol release, creating a biological stress loop.&nbsp;<h2>What makes this stress dangerous</h2>Cortisol is not inherently bad, it helps the body respond to acute stress. However, when cortisol levels stay chronically elevated, it can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, depression, and weakened immunity. The study highlights that hydration plays a direct role in modulating these stress responses.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/milan-s-obsession-with-india-after-kolhapuris-prada-replicates-indian-bus-flooring-texture-on-bags-1759142699949">After Kolhapuris, Prada replicates Indian bus flooring texture on bags</a><h2>How much water do you really need?</h2>It is believed one should consume at least 2.5 litres of water daily. Athletes and physically active individuals may need an extra 1–2 litres depending on their activity level. The simplest way to track hydration is by checking urine colour: pale yellow means you’re well-hydrated, while dark yellow signals the need for more fluids. &nbsp;&nbsp;Another method is multiplying your body weight (in kilograms) by six to estimate daily water needs. However, overdrinking is also not advised, as excess water can flush out vital minerals and vitamins, leading to deficiencies and cravings. Moderation is essential.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/does-seed-cycling-really-work-doctor-explains-the-hormone-balancing-trend-1759068666924">Does seed cycling really work? Doctor explains the hormone-balancing trend</a><h2>Hydration beyond dehydration</h2>This study adds to growing evidence that hydration is about more than preventing dry mouth or fatigue. Adequate water intake also improves cognitive function and mood along with regulating metabolism and inflammation. Proper hydration also reduces risks of cardiovascular and kidney issues.&nbsp;Even mild dehydration- just 1-2% loss of body water, can impair attention, memory, and mental sharpness.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/fond-of-ramen-wait-before-slurping-that-salty-soup-1758990738543">Fond of ramen? Wait before slurping that salty soup</a><h2>Tips to stay hydrated and stress-free</h2>Aim for steady sips throughout the day instead of gulping large amounts at once.Include hydrating foods like cucumber, watermelon, and oranges.Adjust your intake in hot weather, during exercise, or in stressful situations.Avoid sugary sodas as hydration substitutes. Herbal teas, soups, and plain water are better options.&nbsp;So, next time you’re feeling inexplicably wound up, a glass of water might just be the stress reliever you didn’t know you needed.&nbsp;

Hydration is more than a wellness cliche. As per the latest findings by the Journal of Applied Physiology, dehydration can cause anxiety and spike your stress hormones. 


Do you often feel tense, restless, or anxious for no apparent reason? A new study suggests that the culprit may be as simple as your water intake. Researchers have found that dehydration can trigger a surge in cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, making you feel stressed even when there’s no immediate threat. The study that connects stress and hydration The findings, published in the Journal of Applied Physiology on September 3, 2025, reveal that people who don’t drink enough water experience significantly higher spikes in cortisol during stressful situations. Participants who consumed less than 1.5 litres of fluids daily showed over 50% greater cortisol levels compared to those who were adequately hydrated. Also Read: Dussehra 2025: Why is Ravana not burnt but worshipped in these places of India? Interestingly, the under-hydrated group did not necessarily feel thirstier, but lab tests revealed darker urine, higher levels of vasopressin (a water-regulating hormone), and exaggerated stress responses. Vasopressin, while essential for conserving water, also stimulates cortisol release, creating a biological stress loop. What makes this stress dangerous Cortisol is not inherently bad, it helps the body respond to acute stress. However, when cortisol levels stay chronically elevated, it can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, depression, and weakened immunity. The study highlights that hydration plays a direct role in modulating these stress responses. Also Read: After Kolhapuris, Prada replicates Indian bus flooring texture on bags How much water do you really need? It is believed one should consume at least 2.5 litres of water daily. Athletes and physically active individuals may need an extra 1–2 litres depending on their activity level. The simplest way to track hydration is by checking urine colour: pale yellow means you’re well-hydrated, while dark yellow signals the need for more fluids. Another method is multiplying your body weight (in kilograms) by six to estimate daily water needs. However, overdrinking is also not advised, as excess water can flush out vital minerals and vitamins, leading to deficiencies and cravings. Moderation is essential. Also Read: Does seed cycling really work? Doctor explains the hormone-balancing trend Hydration beyond dehydration This study adds to growing evidence that hydration is about more than preventing dry mouth or fatigue. Adequate water intake also improves cognitive function and mood along with regulating metabolism and inflammation. Proper hydration also reduces risks of cardiovascular and kidney issues. Even mild dehydration- just 1-2% loss of body water, can impair attention, memory, and mental sharpness. Also Read: Fond of ramen? Wait before slurping that salty soup Tips to stay hydrated and stress-free Aim for steady sips throughout the day instead of gulping large amounts at once. Include hydrating foods like cucumber, watermelon, and oranges. Adjust your intake in hot weather, during exercise, or in stressful situations. Avoid sugary sodas as hydration substitutes. Herbal teas, soups, and plain water are better options. So, next time you’re feeling inexplicably wound up, a glass of water might just be the stress reliever you didn’t know you needed.

Hydration is more than a wellness cliche. As per the latest findings by the Journal of Applied Physiology, dehydration can cause anxiety and spike your stress hormones.&nbsp;

Dehydrated and stressed out? Study says the two are linked; know how

Ramen may be one of the world’s most comforting foods, but a new study suggests that eating it too often could take a serious toll on your health. Researchers in Japan have found that regular ramen consumption, particularly when paired with drinking the salty broth, may increase the risk of early death.&nbsp;<h2>The research findings</h2>The study, published in The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging in 2025, analyzed data from 6,725 adults as part of the Yamagata Cohort Study. Participants were divided into four groups based on their ramen intake: less than once a month, one to three times a month, one to two times a week, and more than three times a week.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/navratri-2025-special-vrat-friendly-food-ingredients-and-step-by-step-process-1758701860810">Special- Vrat friendly dishes: Ingredients and step-by-step process</a>&nbsp;After tracking participants for nearly 4.5 years, the researchers observed that those who ate ramen more frequently were generally younger men, often with higher body mass index (BMI), smoking habits, alcohol consumption, and pre-existing conditions like diabetes and hypertension.&nbsp;Shockingly, the data revealed that men under 70 who ate ramen three or more times a week, especially when consuming more than half of the broth and alcohol, faced a higher risk of premature death.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/navratri-2025-9-yummy-recipes-for-9-days-of-navratri-1758438229159">Navratri 2025: 9 yummy recipes for 9 days of the festival</a><h2>Why the soup is the real problem</h2>The researchers highlighted that it isn’t just the noodles, but the broth that makes ramen especially risky. The soup is loaded with sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure, stroke, and gastric cancer. According to the CDC, excess salt is one of the major dietary factors contributing to cardiovascular diseases worldwide.&nbsp;The study also noted an interesting twist: people who reported eating ramen less than once a month also showed slightly higher mortality risks, which researchers believe could be due to underlying health issues that had already led them to cut back on ramen.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/cumin-water-vs-fennel-water-which-drink-is-better-for-digestion-and-weight-loss-1758466201905">Cumin water vs Fennel water: Which is better for digestion and weight loss?</a><h2>A global comfort food with hidden dangers</h2>While ramen has grown from a simple Japanese dish to a global culinary sensation in the US, UK, and beyond, health experts are warning fans to practice moderation. A steaming bowl of noodles may feel like the ultimate comfort meal, but it comes with hidden dangers if eaten too frequently.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/shardiya-navratri-2025-why-each-day-has-a-different-colour-and-its-importance-1758462440096">Shardiya Navratri 2025: Why each day has a different colour and its importance</a><h2>What experts recommend</h2><ul><li>Limit ramen to occasional indulgence rather than a regular meal.</li><li>Avoid drinking the soup, since that’s where most of the salt hides.</li><li>Balance ramen cravings with a healthy diet rich in fresh vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.</li></ul>“Frequent intake of ramen noodles might be associated with mortality risk in men under 70 years and those who consumed more than half of the broth with alcohol,” the study stated. So, the next time you crave ramen, go ahead and enjoy the noodles, but think twice before finishing the broth.&nbsp;

Who doesn't love ramen? But a recent study revealed that its frequent consumption can cause series health problems. Read on to know more. 


Ramen may be one of the world’s most comforting foods, but a new study suggests that eating it too often could take a serious toll on your health. Researchers in Japan have found that regular ramen consumption, particularly when paired with drinking the salty broth, may increase the risk of early death. The research findings The study, published in The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging in 2025, analyzed data from 6,725 adults as part of the Yamagata Cohort Study. Participants were divided into four groups based on their ramen intake: less than once a month, one to three times a month, one to two times a week, and more than three times a week. Also Read: Special- Vrat friendly dishes: Ingredients and step-by-step process After tracking participants for nearly 4.5 years, the researchers observed that those who ate ramen more frequently were generally younger men, often with higher body mass index (BMI), smoking habits, alcohol consumption, and pre-existing conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Shockingly, the data revealed that men under 70 who ate ramen three or more times a week, especially when consuming more than half of the broth and alcohol, faced a higher risk of premature death. Also Read: Navratri 2025: 9 yummy recipes for 9 days of the festival Why the soup is the real problem The researchers highlighted that it isn’t just the noodles, but the broth that makes ramen especially risky. The soup is loaded with sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure, stroke, and gastric cancer. According to the CDC, excess salt is one of the major dietary factors contributing to cardiovascular diseases worldwide. The study also noted an interesting twist: people who reported eating ramen less than once a month also showed slightly higher mortality risks, which researchers believe could be due to underlying health issues that had already led them to cut back on ramen. Also Read: Cumin water vs Fennel water: Which is better for digestion and weight loss? A global comfort food with hidden dangers While ramen has grown from a simple Japanese dish to a global culinary sensation in the US, UK, and beyond, health experts are warning fans to practice moderation. A steaming bowl of noodles may feel like the ultimate comfort meal, but it comes with hidden dangers if eaten too frequently. Also Read: Shardiya Navratri 2025: Why each day has a different colour and its importance What experts recommend Limit ramen to occasional indulgence rather than a regular meal. Avoid drinking the soup, since that’s where most of the salt hides. Balance ramen cravings with a healthy diet rich in fresh vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. “Frequent intake of ramen noodles might be associated with mortality risk in men under 70 years and those who consumed more than half of the broth with alcohol,” the study stated. So, the next time you crave ramen, go ahead and enjoy the noodles, but think twice before finishing the broth.

Who doesn't love ramen? But a recent study revealed that its frequent consumption can cause series health problems. Read on to know more.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Fond of ramen? Wait before slurping that salty soup

The prices of healthier foods are already higher and rising at a faster pace compared to unhealthy foods, a new study has found. Watch this report for more details!

Report: The cost of healthy eating in the UK has gone up

British families could be handed rewards for switching to healthier food and exercising as per new proposals by the UK government. A new app is being launched to measure the progress. The scheme will monitor family supermarket spending and reward those who reduce their calorie consumption and buy more fruit and vegetables. This programme is being launched in order to deal with UK's obesity crisis.

British Families to be handed rewards for switching to healthier food

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