10-October-2024-Special-Article

ROLE OF ULTRA-PROCESSED FOODS AND ADVANCED GLYCATION END PRODUCTS (AGES) IN INDIA’S DIABETES SURGE

A recent study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition has brought attention to the role of ultra-processed foods and Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) in the rising cases of diabetes in India.

This study, funded by the Department of Biotechnology under the Ministry of Science and Technology, is the first clinical trial of its kind in India.

With India often referred to as the “diabetic capital” of the world, the study offers insights into how AGEs and poor dietary habits contribute to this public health crisis.

Key Findings of the Study

Role of Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs):

• The study links the high intake of AGE-rich foods to the increasing number of diabetes cases in India, with over 101 million people affected.
• AGEs are harmful compounds that form when sugars react with proteins or fats during high-temperature cooking methods, such as frying or roasting.
• AGEs contribute to oxidative stress, which leads to inflammation, cell damage, and the development of diabetes.

Impact on Insulin Sensitivity:

• The study showed that low-AGE diets, primarily consisting of foods cooked by steaming or boiling, significantly improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation.
• High-AGE diets, commonly found in ultra-processed foods, can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar and insulin resistance over time.
• Reducing AGEs in the diet can be an effective strategy for lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Why Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) Are Harmful to Health

High in Saturated Fats, Salt, and Sugar:

• Ultra-processed foods contain excessive amounts of unhealthy fats, salt, and sugar, contributing to the rising cases of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Additives:

• These foods are often loaded with preservatives, artificial colours, sweeteners, and emulsifiers, all of which can negatively affect health.
• Additives can cause inflammation, disrupt gut balance, and lead to metabolic issues.

Nutrient Absorption:

• Processing alters the nutrient composition of food, making it harder for the body to absorb nutrients. For instance, whole nuts contain less absorbable fat than processed ones, leading to higher calorie intake in the latter.

Gut Health Impact:

• The gut microbiome, essential for digestion and immunity, may be disrupted by the unhealthy fats, sugars, and additives found in ultra-processed foods.

Lifestyle Impact:

• Those who consume high levels of ultra-processed foods may also engage in other unhealthy behaviors, such as physical inactivity, irregular eating patterns, and overconsumption.

Types of Food Processing

• Minimally Processed Foods: These include natural foods like fruits, vegetables, milk, and fish with no added ingredients or minimal alterations from their original state.
• Processed Ingredients: Foods like salt, sugar, and oils that are added to other foods, rather than consumed on their own.
• Processed Foods: These are made by combining minimally processed ingredients and can typically be prepared at home, like pickles, jams, and cheese.
• Ultra-Processed Foods:
• Ultra-processed foods are industrially manufactured products that contain ingredients uncommon in-home kitchens, like preservatives, colourings, and flavour enhancers.
• They are high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and salt but low in fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Examples include sugary beverages, instant noodles, packaged snacks, and ready-to-eat meals.

Reasons for Increasing Consumption of Ultra-Processed Foods in India

• Urbanization: Fast-paced urban lifestyles necessitate convenient and quick food options. Ultra-processed foods fit this requirement as they require minimal preparation.
• Cultural Shifts: There is a growing preference for Western diets that emphasize fast food, sugary snacks, and ready-to-eat meals.
• Rising Number of Working Women: With more women in the workforce, ultra-processed foods offer a convenient solution for balancing work and home responsibilities.
• Limited Access to Fresh Foods: In urban areas, the availability of fresh, healthy food is often limited, making ultra-processed foods an appealing alternative.
• Aggressive Marketing: Ultra-processed foods are heavily advertised, often with misleading health claims. Celebrity endorsements and targeted advertising, particularly towards children, also contribute to the rising consumption.
• Status Symbol: Consuming processed foods is often perceived as a symbol of higher social status, further promoting their consumption.

Government Initiatives to Promote Healthy Food Habits

• World Food Safety Day: This initiative raises awareness about food safety and encourages healthy eating practices.
• Eat Right India: A movement that focuses on promoting healthy, balanced diets.
• State Food Safety Index: This index ranks states based on their food safety standards to encourage healthy food consumption.
• RUCO (Repurpose Used Cooking Oil): An initiative to promote safe and healthy cooking oil practices by repurposing used oil.
• Food Safety Mitra: A program that involves trained personnel to promote food safety standards in various food sectors.

Recommendations to Reduce the Consumption of Ultra-Processed Foods

• Adopt a Low-AGE Diet: Include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Cut down on sugary and bakery products.
• Cooking Methods: Opt for low-temperature cooking methods like boiling and steaming instead of frying and roasting to reduce AGEs.
• Definition of HFSS Foods: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) should clearly define High in Fat, Sugar, and Salt (HFSS) foods to help consumers make informed choices.
• Nutrient-Based Taxation: Implement a higher tax on foods with excessive fat, sugar, and salt to encourage healthier reformulations by manufacturers.
• Revise the PLI Scheme: The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme should support the production of healthier food products.
• Restricting Promotions: Tighten regulations on the marketing of HFSS foods, especially those targeting children.
• Strengthen Policies and Programs: Expand initiatives like Poshan 2.0 and Saksham Anganwadi to address both malnutrition and the rise of diet-related diseases.

Mains Question:

1. “Discuss the role of ultra-processed foods and Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) in the rising prevalence of diabetes in India. Suggest measures to curb the consumption of such foods.” (150 WORDS)