Importance of Healthy Nutrition for Women in India, ET HealthWorld

The month of March is significant for two reasons – World Obesity Day and International Women’s Day. A recent study highlighted a rise in adult obesity in India, with a differential incidence among women. Obesity is not just a health concern but also has high economic costs. Per capita cost was estimated at 0.8% of GDP in 2019, and during the Covid-19 pandemic, obesity increased susceptibility to the disease. The WHO defines adult obesity as a BMI greater than or equal to 30. The gender-wise trend in obesity incidence over the last three decades shows a higher prevalence among women, with the gender gap widening.

Abdominal obesity in women, with a waist circumference greater than 80cm, is a critical determinant of metabolic diseases. The prevalence of abdominal obesity in women is three times higher than in men. The rise in obesity prevalence in rural areas is concerning, with implications for non-communicable diseases, labor productivity, and female labor force participation. The transformation of the consumption basket towards excess intake of calories, sugar, and fatty foods has led to obesity as a result of over-nutrition.

Initiatives to address undernutrition and physical activity have overlooked the need to address overnutrition through shifts in diet patterns. There is a need for more frequent surveys to track changes in women’s diet patterns and greater coordination to address women’s obesity. Educating households on the importance of proper nutrition for women is essential. Addressing women’s health through a healthy nutritional transition will not only improve their well-being but also have positive spillover effects on society. The article is written by Ayona Bhattacharjee, Associate Professor of Economics at International Management Institute, New Delhi.