Protein deficiency in India is a widespread yet hidden health crisis. Surveys show that over 70% of Indians lack enough protein. Despite being a major protein producer, India suffers from protein shortages due to poor dietary habits and a lack of awareness. As a result, everyone experiences issues like muscle loss and low immunity.
It becomes even more alarming to know that Indian women are more affected than men, with over 80% of women experiencing deficiency. That means 8 out of 10 Indian women are protein-deficient, often without realizing it.
Why this gap?
There are multiple reasons why India is heavily protein-deficient.
Firstly, Indians prefer diets that are rich in carbohydrates. Secondly, there is a widespread vegetarianism that lacks enough plant-based protein sources.
And finally, Indian diet patterns are more reliant on staples. 60% of the protein Indians consume is derived from cereals, which either have poor digestibility or quality.
If we go deeper into understanding the psychology behind the Indian diet, we will also realize that many Indians mistake protein as a need for athletes or bodybuilders. Therefore, the need for protein for every human body for daily metabolic health is often ignored.
Now, let’s talk about why women are more prone to protein deficiency. Primarily, because women often eat smaller portions, frequently sacrificing nutritious food for the family’s needs. A significant lack of awareness regarding protein requirements adds to the deficiency.
How to address the gap?
Women have different protein requirements throughout their life stages. Multiple factors influence the protein needs, such as age, hormonal changes, and activity level in women.
During the adolescent stage, protein is required for growth and development. During pregnancy and lactation, women require more protein to support fetal growth and the production of milk.
As women age, particularly during the stage of menopause, adequate protein intake is critical to prevent sarcopenia, the loss of muscle tissue.
Since the need for protein is different at different stages, it is important to evaluate protein consumption regularly.
Protein supports mental well-being as well as physical well-being
By now, we have only talked about the necessity of protein for physical well-being. Many people hardly know about the role of protein in mental well-being.
Adequate intake of protein can help regulate the level of blood sugar, which is essential to maintain vitality and mood throughout the day. This is more important for women who are facing mood swings due to hormonal fluctuations.
Furthermore, protein is one of the major contributors to the production of neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters control mood and brain functions. Therefore, a protein-rich diet can support both physical and mental health, enriching the overall quality of life.
Exploring the best protein sources for women
Protein can be obtained easily from plant-based and animal-based sources.
Animal-based protein sources are meat, eggs, fish, and dairy products. An animal-based diet provides a good amount of protein containing all the required amino acids.
On the other hand, there are plant-based protein sources like nuts, lentils, seeds, beans, and grains. Plant-based sources can also offer the required protein while being lower in saturated fat and calories.
Since vegetarian women suffer more protein deficiency, combining different plant-based proteins can ensure women receive all the required amino acids.
How to incorporate more protein in women diet
A fusion of animal and plant-based protein can enhance the amount of protein in the daily diet. But how about a vegetarian diet?
Well, we have an easy and enjoyable solution for that, too. Start by adding just a scoop of our simple protein atta mix “Super Roti” to your regular atta. You can adjust the number of scoops based on the quantity of rotis you consume in each meal.
Super Roti ensures protein-rich food is readily available for everyone in the family, including women. Super Roti is made with all plant-based ingredients, and this is the simplest addition to your daily diet.
With Super Roti, one can get 6g more protein from each roti, and it makes it easier to stick to your dietary goals.
So, women, what are you waiting for? Be intentional about your protein consumption, enhance your health, and support your body’s needs effectively with Super Roti.