NRIs BUT Dil Hai Hindustani !!

In about 15 years of my practise as a Nutrition consultant & Dietitian, I have come across many NRI clients and have found a few things common among them.

They are still Hindustani by heart.

They love Indian food.

They still have active Indian genes and that is why

They are prone to Metaboilc Disorders.

Genetically, Indians store more body fat particularly in the abdominal region in comparison of western population. Fat storage near  heart (in comparison of thighs & hips) poses a greater risk for Metabolic Disorders. It has also been observed that Indians can have a LOWER Body Mass Index (BMI), but HIGH fat percentage. Even NON – OBESE  INDIANS CAN HAVE SEVERE METABOLIC DISTURBANCES including insulin resistance. Indians also have a higher level of subcutaneous fat in comparison of western population, this when combined with high levels of hormones, insulin & leptin (hormone which controls appetite) forms a huge risk.

Genetics are not only to be blamed for this increased risk of Metabolic Disorders, the other factors involved are:

Westernization of Indian diet

Skewed pattern of eating

Increasing inactivity and

High Stress

So what is the solution?

Solution lies in going back to our roots. We have to focus on what our fore fathers used to eat. Bringing back the Indian Super Foods to our plate.

A western diet may not suit an Indian Genetic Make up, a customised Diet Plan considering ones ethnicity & genetics, combined with individual health risks & food habits should be a right approach to follow.

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