Concept of Food and Nutrition

Around 224.3 million people in India suffer from undernutrition.

India ranks 131 out of 189 countries on the Human Development Index (HDI) in 2020.

Nutrition is the study of food and its impact on health. Good nutrition is essential for health, productivity, and overall well-being.

Over-nutrition is a type of malnutrition caused by consuming excessive food and nutrients, like carbohydrates and fats.

Overeating and insufficient exercise are the main factors leading to overweight.

Obesity is a condition where excess fat accumulates in the body, enlarging the size or number of fat cells.

Consumption of surplus calories converted to fat storage in the body, which can cause weight gain or obesity.

Obesity is a growing concern globally, influencing both developed and developing countries, and affecting both adults and children.

A measure of weight-to-height ratio used to categorize weight status (underweight, overweight, obese).

A BMI of 25 kg/m2 or higher classifies a person as obese.

A diet containing all essential nutrients (proteins, carbs, fats, minerals, vitamins) in the correct proportions.

Nutrient requirements plus a safety margin to account for individual needs and variations in diet.

Includes a variety of foods, meets RDAs, includes nutrients in correct proportions, provides a safety margin, promotes good health.

Quantity of nutrients varies based on age, sex and physical activity.

BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters.

A state of complete physical, emotional, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

A state of emotional and psychological well-being where an individual can use their cognitive and emotional capabilities, function in society, and meet everyday demands.

The capacity of the heart, blood vessels, lungs, and muscles to function at optimal efficiency, enabling efficient and effective daily activities.

A task-oriented definition of fitness based on the ability to perform specific tasks, like in sports or occupations.

A state of overall health and well-being.

Being fit prepares for mental and emotional challenges; one feels strong and energetic when fit.

Categories of fitness: aerobic fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and body composition.

Achieving and maintaining a body weight appropriate for one's height.

Categories of foods with similar characteristics, like nutrients or source.

A guide for meal planning in India, categorizing foods into five groups.

Food group including rice, wheat, and other grains, providing energy and some vitamins.

A food group rich in protein, iron, and fiber, originating from plants.

Food group including milk, dairy, meat, and eggs, rich in protein and calcium.

A food group loaded with vitamins (like Vitamin C), minerals, and fiber.

A food group providing energy, but should be eaten in moderation.

A visual guide that emphasizes foods from five main groups: grains, vegetables, fruits, milk products, and meat & beans.

Diets that rely primarily on plant-based foods, with some variations including eggs and/or milk products.

Vegetarians can find alternatives to meat like legumes, seeds, nuts, and tofu, or eggs for some.

Legumes and leafy greens help supply iron, a nutrient typically found in meat.

A plant-based milk alternative made from soybeans, fortified with calcium, vitamin D, and B12 for similar nutrition.

Essential for their well-being, as nutritional needs increase during puberty and rapid growth.

Adolescents tend to skip meals, eat fast food often, avoid fruits and vegetables, snack frequently, and diet.

Understanding teen diet patterns helps evaluate nutritional adequacy and ensures meeting minimum health requirements.

When teenagers regularly miss meals, especially breakfast and lunch, due to factors like time constraints, dieting attempts, or limited resources.

Snacking can be beneficial for teens, especially if they miss regular meals, as it can help maintain energy levels and provide essential nutrients.

Adolescents, particularly in urban areas, often choose fast food due to its convenience, social aspect, and perceived trendiness.

Fast food is often high in fat and calories with limited nutritional value.

Many teenage girls attempt to control their weight by skipping meals, which can be counterproductive and harmful to their health.

Maintaining an ideal body weight is crucial for adolescents as obesity in youth often leads to overweight status in adulthood.

The evening meal is typically the most consistently eaten meal among teenagers, highlighting its importance in a balanced diet.

Skipping breakfast can slow down metabolism, contributing to weight gain and poor performance.