National Nutrition Week: 10 Food Habits You Must Have

A country is what its citizens are. The fate of a nation depends on its citizens’ talent and ability. Whereas the citizens’ capabilities depend on his/her lifestyle, and our government has left no crumbs to make sure the citizens are fit and fine.

The Ministry of Women and Child Development organises National Nutrition Week in the first week of September every year since 1982 to educate the public about the importance of a healthy diet for a healthy nutrition intake.

This year, the prime minister has asked the public to lower their unhealthy food consumption and oil intake by 10% as part of embracing wellness and healthier diets and to deal with dietary health problems.

Multiple organisations have taken different initiatives to celebrate National Nutrition Week and spread awareness about its importance.

On #NationalNutritionWeek, #IndianArmy organised Medical Camps at Zalenphai, Churachandpur and Wangoo, Bishnupur, providing health check-ups, nutrition screening, medicine distribution & awareness sessions for women, children & elderly.#NationalNutritionWeek पर #IndianArmy ने… pic.twitter.com/iVsOmwChSq

— SpearCorps.IndianArmy (@Spearcorps) September 2, 2025

The Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) has launched the Eat Right India initiative that aims to enhance a culture of healthy, sustainable and safe food processes

POSHAN Abhiyaan, also called the National Nutrition Mission, is a crucial step taken by the government to monitor children’s growth, the POSHAN tracker app for timely updates, society-based events and incorporation of Nutri-garden in Anganwadi centres and schools.

Moreover, the Mid-Day meal scheme and Integrated Child Development Services are ways of child nutrition in India.

Here is what you can do to fuel your body in the best way possible:

• One third of the meal should include Starchy carbohydrates as they are our primary energy source. Preference should be given to high fibre or wholegrain varieties like brown rice, potatoes with skin and whole wheat products. Always monitor the fats during meal prep, as they are the source of increased calories.
• Try to take a minimum of 5 portions of different fruits and veggies daily.
• A great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals is fish. Try to add fish to your meal at least twice a week. Especially oily fish that are rich in omega-3.
• Minimise saturated fat and sugar as much as possible, as an increase in saturated fat in the body can lead to an increase in cholesterol level in the blood, causing heart disease. The average saturated fat intake for men is 30g and for women 20g a day. High sugar consumption can lead to high obesity risk and tooth decay.
• 6g a day should be the salt limit for adults, especially for people with high blood pressure. Three-quarters of your salt intake comes from the food you buy. If the label says 1.5g of salt per 100g, it is high in salt.

By six months, breastmilk alone can no longer fulfill an infant's nutritional needs. It's important to gradually introduce other nutritious, semisolid foods to support their growth and development.@MinistryWCD#PoshanMaah2024 #NationalNutritionWeek pic.twitter.com/9N0ofGSlvB

— Ministry of Ayush (@moayush) September 10, 2024

• Make a habit of regular exercise to stay away from obese related health issues like heart disease, certain cancers, stroke and diabetes.
• Say no to dehydration; drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water daily should be a must.
• A balanced breakfast is the best way to start your day. It can include wholegrain lower sugar cereal, milk and sliced fruits.
• Another great source of protein is milk and its products. When opting for alternatives, choose unsweetened and calcium-fortified versions.
• Try to make your meal as colourful as possible by incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables.