Dietary Macronutrient and Micronutrient Intake Among Corporate Employees Aged 30 to 40 Years Residing in Mumbai, India

Abstract

The rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India necessitates more studies on nutritional intake and dietary behaviour. While data exists on low-income groups, rural populations and the population at large, limited information exists on that of urban, working professionals – a demographic that has the means and access to make informed choices, and yet, have a disproportionately high risk of NCDs. The aim of this study was to investigate nutrient intake in Indian professionals. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 214 working professionals (aged 30-40 years; 69 females and 145 males) in Mumbai. Habitual food intake was investigated by two 24-hour recalls and a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Nutrient adequacy ratios were calculated in comparison to Indian estimated average requirements. Compared to recommendations, a lower total energy and carbohydrate intake, while a higher protein and fat intake was observed among the participants. However, the intake of omega-3 fats, and overall fruit and vegetable intake was poor. A significantly higher energy from proteins and fats was observed among non-vegetarians, while vegetarians consumed more energy from carbohydrates. Insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals was prevalent with over 50% of study participants consuming <50% of their required intake of Vitamin A, B12, folate, riboflavin, zinc and potassium. Intake of copper, pyridoxine and iron were also suboptimal. To conclude, the insufficient intake of micronutrient and macronutrient imbalances in the studied population, highlights the urgency of targeted nutritional interventions and education in urban, corporate populations in India, to mitigate the risk of NCDs.