India's nutrition problem: 51% women anemic while 22% are obese
Diversity is one of India's identifying features, but it is now being seen in bizarre circumstances. According to the Global Nutrition Report 2017, India has the maximum number of anemic women in the world: 51% of those of reproductive age have anemia. On the other hand, more than one of five adult Indian women (22%) are overweight. Here's the detailed report.
About the Global Nutrition Report
The Global Nutrition Report studied three parameters in 140 countries around the world: childhood stunting, anemia in women of reproductive age, and overweight adult women. 88% countries were found to be seriously suffering from at least two of these parameters.
51% of Indian women in reproductive age anemic
The number of anemic women in India has increased from 48% (2016) to 51% (2017). India was followed by China, Pakistan, Nigeria and Indonesia. According to experts, poor hygiene, low awareness, inequality and illiteracy are factors that lead to such high numbers, apart from undernutrition. Many say government programs to tackle this are lacking. Globally, 614mn women aged 15-49 were suffering from anemia.
22% of adult Indian women are overweight
Meanwhile, one of five adult Indian women is obese. In fact, 2bn of the world's 7bn people are obese. Chances of meeting the global target of controlling obesity and diabetes is less than 1%. India has other problems too: 38% of children under five are stunted, and 21% of them are 'wasted' or 'severely wasted' (they weigh less than they should at their height).
Iron's necessary to check anemia. Here's where you get it
Iron deficiency is a leading cause of anemia. Nutritionist Shilpa Arora suggests eating beetroot (high iron content) and amla (high Vitamin C content to absorb the former); fenugreek leave sand seeds (helps in blood formation); and jaggery (3% of daily iron requirement from 10gm).
