Mint Explainer | Why India is getting fat: National survey also reveals urban-rural dichotomy | Today’s news

An Indian Council of Medical Research survey published in 2025 linked rapid dietary transitions to an alarming rise in cardiometabolic diseases. According to the study, the Indian diet is characterized by low carbohydrate quality (white rice, milled whole grains and added sugar), high saturated fat and low protein intake. Those with the highest carb intake had a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, generalized obesity and abdominal obesity, the survey found.