Carb-dominated diet put millions at risk, Indian study finds

Veni E N

Oct 06, 2025

Health

Health

India’s dietary profile, dominated by carbohydrates and low-quality protein, is closely linked to increasing cases of diabetes, prediabetes, and obesity, according to a nationwide study.

Health

The study reported that Indians derived about 62 percent of daily calories from carbohydrates, the highest levels in the world. 

Health

White rice dominated diets in the south, east, and north-eastern regions, while wheat was more common in the north and central parts of the country.

Health

While overall fat consumption stayed within national guidelines, saturated fat exceeded recommended limits in nearly all regions.

Health

The analysis found that replacing 5 percent of daily carbohydrate calories with plant or dairy protein significantly reduced the risk of diabetes and prediabetes.