In India, National Nutrition Week (NNW) is observed yearly from September 1 to 7. This week is dedicated to raising public awareness about the importance of nutrition and establishing good eating habits.
Several seminars, workshops, educational events, conferences, and public awareness efforts are held across the country during National Nutrition Week. These activities are intended to educate individuals about the benefits of eating a balanced diet, the positive impact of appropriate nutrition, techniques to prevent diseases associated with poor dietary habits, and strategies for overcoming nutritional deficiencies.
What are some dietary suggestions?
The objective is to match your calorie intake to your activity level so that your energy intake equals your energy expenditure.
Begin with high-fibre starchy carbohydrate meals: Starchy carbs like potatoes, bread, rice, pasta, and cereals should make up about one-third of your diet.
Include plenty of fruits and vegetables: It is recommended that you consume at least 5 servings of a variety of fruits and vegetables each day. Fresh, canned, frozen, dry, or juiced are all options.
Increase your consumption of fish, particularly oily fish: Eat fish at least twice a week, with one serving of oily fish.
Reduce your intake of saturated fat and sugar: Saturated fat boosts cholesterol levels, increasing your risk of heart disease. Consuming sugary meals and drinks on a frequent basis increases the risk of obesity and tooth decay.
Breakfast should not be skipped: A balanced diet includes a nutritious, high-fibre, low-fat, low-sugar, and low-salt breakfast. It contains nutrients that are necessary for optimum health.
History of National Nutritional Week
National Nutrition Week was established in 1975 by the American Dietetic Association, which is now known as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This week was intended to raise awareness of the need of eating well and staying active in order to live a healthy life.
People liked the idea so much that it was expanded to a month-long celebration in 1980. National Nutrition Week was first observed in India in 1982. The government initiated a number of efforts to encourage, inform, and educate people on healthy eating and how it relates to keeping well and living longer.
The Importance of National Nutritional Week
National Nutrition Week is observed with the goal of teaching people about the importance of eating a healthy and nutritious diet. The Food and Nutrition Board, which is part of the Government of India’s Ministry of Women and Child Development, organises an annual week-long celebration to raise awareness about this important precept.
The relevance of a healthy diet in promoting optimal human physiological function and growth is central to this endeavour. The need of eating a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is strongly highlighted as a necessity for good health and developmental progress. The government has taken proactive steps to promote the ideals of good nutrition, pure food, and the development of a healthy lifestyle.
National Nutritional Month’s Theme
According to UNICEF, the theme of Nutrition Month 2023 is “Healthy Diet Going Affordable for All.”
