Are home-cooked meals ‘unhealthy’? ICMR guidelines answer this crucial question

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Foods high in fats, sugar or salt (HFSS) are harmful to health because they contain less micronutrients and fibre

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recently issued guidelines which suggested that even home-cooked food can be unhealthy if not prepared properly. 

It is a preconceived notion that home-cooked meals are healthier options as compared to junk food. But in its latest dietary guidelines, ICMR said, “Even home-made foods may become unhealthy if prepared with high fat, high sugar or salt.” 

ICMR has warned that foods high in fats, sugar or salt (HFSS) are harmful to health because they contain less micronutrients and fibre. They are also calorie-dense. The medical research also mentioned that saturated fat raises the risk of obesity. Ghee or butter, coconut oil, palm oil, and vanaspati all include saturated fats. 

“…t also deprives one of the healthy foods that provide essential macronutrients (amino acids and fats), fibre, and micronutrients such as vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and bio-active substances,” the guidelines read. 

“High-fat or high-sugar foods cause inflammation and affect the gut microbiota, which changes quickly with diet. This increases the risk of NCDs. Foods with high salt increase the risk of hypertension and tax the kidneys. Hence, high salt intake is unhealthy,” the guidelines further added. 

ICMR said that a lack of essential amino acids, fatty acids, and micronutrients in the diet can cause anaemia. It can impair cognition and harm learning ability. It can also increase the risk of noncommunicable diseases, such as type 2 diabetes. 

“High fat or high sugar foods cause inflammation and affect the gut microbiota, which changes quickly with diet. This increases the risk of NCDs. Foods with high salt increase the risk of hypertension and tax the kidneys. Hence, high salt intake is unhealthy,” it stated. 

(With inputs from agencies) 

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