Priyanka
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India is witnessing a sharp increase in health conditions like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and fatty liver disease—much of which can be linked to the growing consumption of fast food and ultra-processed items. Unlike the past, where home-cooked dal, roti, sabzi, and curd were staples, modern marketing and western influence have made packaged food a perceived status symbol.
Global Shift Away from Fast Food
Countries like Japan, France, Norway, Australia, and Chile are taking strong measures to regulate unhealthy food. Ironically, while India is increasingly adopting processed food habits, many Western nations now view packaged and frozen food as lower-quality choices. Those with means in countries like the U.S. prefer fresh, seasonal food—much like India’s original dietary traditions.
Understanding the Risks of Packaged and Processed Foods
Processed foods often contain artificial preservatives, high levels of sodium, sugar, and saturated fats. These ingredients can damage organs like the liver and heart. Unlike natural food, processed items are designed for long shelf life, not nutritional value.
Why Traditional Indian Food Is Better
Freshly Cooked Food: Dal, roti, vegetables, and dairy support digestion and provide essential nutrients.
Whole Grains and Pulses: Take longer to digest, keeping you full and energized.
Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fiber.
Fatty Liver in India: A Growing Epidemic
Affects one-third of the population
Over 1 crore new cases every year
Estimated 50 crore total patients
Rapid rise in the last decade
Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease
Swelling in upper abdomen
Persistent fatigue
Nausea and vomiting
Appetite loss
Indigestion
Main Causes of Liver Damage
Fried and spicy food
Junk and fatty food
Refined sugar and processed snacks
Carbonated drinks
Alcohol
Liver Functions: Why It’s Crucial to Stay Healthy
Filters toxins from blood
Produces vital enzymes and proteins
Stores nutrients
Helps in cholesterol and sugar regulation
Boosts immunity
Protect Your Liver: Foods to Avoid
Saturated fats
Excess sugar and salt
Processed and packaged foods
Sugary drinks
Alcohol
Eat to Heal: Foods That Support Liver Health
Seasonal fruits
Whole grains (millets, oats, brown rice)
Low-fat dairy (milk, curd, paneer)
Green leafy vegetables
Home-cooked meals
A Call to Action This Navratri
As we celebrate Navratri, let’s pledge to return to our roots—choosing nutritious, traditional Indian food over processed junk. Combined with regular yoga and mindful living, we can protect our health and preserve our cultural heritage.
Let’s choose wellness. Let’s choose dal-roti over doughnuts.
