City households more health conscious

Survey shows Indian homemakers are becoming health conscious but can’t keep their hands off unhealthy snacks

A total of 3012 homemakers were interviewed by Ipsos across six cities

Namkeens, chips, biscuits and cookies – These sumptuous snacks are a gastronomical delight for many but ever wondered, are we making an astute choice? A survey conducted by Ipsos in six metros found that Hyderabad and Delhi have the best snacking ‘nutrient profile’ in the country. The study covered metros like Hyderabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, Ahmedabad and Bangalore on a sample size of 3012 subjects, split across 20 to 55 years age group, all women, and described the alarming figures of nutritional inadequacy in our country.

While 96 per cent of those surveyed said they were aware of all the nutrients which were imperative for a healthy life, only one-fifth of those polled binge on healthy options while snacking.

Ritika Samaddar, a nutritionist says that, “This figure suggests a tectonic shift in the mindset of Indian women, who are now at least aware of the requirements of their and their family’s health, fitness and overall wellbeing. But, clearly, there are loopholes in implementation and most of them end up giving in to their cravings”

63 per cent of the respondents said that they plan the meal for their families a night prior which also is indicative of the thought process homemakers put in to holistically cover the health needs of their families.

Interestingly, mothers in Hyderabad and Delhi are doing their bit by including healthy nuts like almonds and fruits in their family’s diet. Mumbai also does not lag far behind.

Madhuri Ruia another nutritionist says, “Nuts, such as almonds, provide a powerful nutrient package including plant protein, hunger-fighting fiber, healthy monounsaturated fats, and important vitamins and minerals. All of these may have cardio protective, ant carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In fact, ounce for ounce, almonds are higher in protein, fiber, calcium, vitamin E, riboflavin and niacin than any other tree nut. No way should one miss including this nut in their diet.”

The survey also had three in four respondents who relish tea/coffee with cookie as their morning snack. According to Samaddar, “Tea, coffee and cookies may be synonymous with morning snack time but they also are very high on the calorie count when compared to other snacking items like nuts and fruits “

The study found that 63 per cent of those surveyed munch on something whenever they are hungry and especially while watching television. What they prefer to munch on usually constitutes of cookies and namkeen and sometimes nuts. Bangaloreans, however, elude this trend.

Sheela Krishnaswamy, diet and nutrition consultant says, “To curb hunger pangs during snack time, it is always better to munch on nuts or have fruits because they are an instant source of energy. Nuts like almonds satisfy the urge to eat something and at the same time keep a check on the excess calorie intake as well as cholesterol level. These are important parameters especially for people who have diabetes or heart disease running in their family.”