Nutritional Quality of Diets of Adults (20-40 Years) in Delhi, India

Abstract

Rise in prevalence of diet related non communicable diseases can be prevented by following balanced and healthy diets. The study aimed to assess adequacy of nutrient and food group intakes along with frequency of consumption of foods High in Fat, Sugar and Salt (HFSS). The study was a cross-sectional study with non-probability purposive sampling method. A total of 589 adults (20-40 years) were selected from housing colonies from four geographical zones of city. Dietary intake was assessed using 24-hour dietary recall method. Frequency and amount of foods consumed was recorded using a semi quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). The differences in food groups and nutrient intakes across socio-demographic groups were assessed using Independent sample t-test and Mann-Whitney U test. Statistical significance was assumed at 5% level (p<0.05). Most participants had nutrient intakes lower than the EAR for calcium (97%), zinc (98%), riboflavin (100%), niacin (68%), vitamin B6 (96%) and vitamin A (60%). All participants had lower intakes of pulses, green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, fruits, milk and milk products, oilseed and nuts when compared to the recommended intakes. HFSS foods-sweet plain biscuits (46%), fried namkeen (37%), roasted namkeen (30%), non-carbonated drinks (29%) and deep-fried foods (25%) were eaten regularly by more than one fourth of participants. Participants occasionally consumed pizzas (60%), chat (54%), dosa (50%) and burgers (48%). Therefore, reducing the share of foods high in fat, sugar and salt and enabling healthier selection of food groups through behaviour change communication strategies will ensure adequate nutrient intakes.