Are you an Indian Non-Vegetarian? Do you only eat eggs in a cake? Do you eat chicken too? How often do you eat anything Non-vegetarian? Indians who eat non-vegetarian food might think they're getting enough protein, they are not.
Why Protein Matters
Protein is essential for
- Building and repairing tissues
- Making enzymes and hormones
- Supporting a healthy immune system
The Protein Gap In Indian Diets
Even if you eat non-vegetarian food, you might not be getting enough protein, here's why:
- Infrequent meat consumption: Many Indians eat meat only ocassionally.
- Small portions: When meat is eaten, it's often in small amounts.
- Limited variety: Chicken is the most common meat, but other sources are important too.
By the Numbers
- Only 28-30% of Indians are vegetarians. (National Family Health Survey 2019-2021)
- The average Indian eats about 3.6 kg of meat per year. The global average is 34 kg per year (OCED-FAO,2020)
Tips for Increasing Your Protein Intake
- Eat a variety of protein sources:
- Chicken, fish, eggs
- Lentils, beans, tofu (even they don't have as much protein as assumed btw)
- Low-fat dairy products
- Pay attention to portion sizes:
- Aim for a palm-sized portion of meat or fish
- Or 1 cup of lentils or beans
- Include protein in every meal:
- Add eggs to breakfast
- Include dal or chicken in lunch
- Have a serving of fish or paneer with dinner
- Try protein rich snacks:
- Greek yogurt
- Roasted Soya nuggets
When to see a Doctor
If you're concerned about your protein intake, especially if you:
- Feel weak or tired often
- Are losing muscle mass
- Have brittle hair or nails
Talk to a registered healthcare provider at Fe-rry. We can help asses your diet and suggest improvements.
Remeber, small changes in your eating habits can make a big difference in your overall health.
Anaemia
Iron-deficiency
Side Effects
Oral Iron
Metallic Taste
Iron Supplements
Iron
Iron tablets