'Not advisable': India's top nutrition institute flags consumption of protein supplements

India's National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) has revised its 'Dietary Guidelines for Indians' after taking into account the latest scientific findings, changes in lifestyle, diseases and dietary habits. The top institute designated earthen cookware 'safest' as its requires less oil and preserves nutrition and flagged the excess consumption of protein supplements. 

Unsafe food storage and cooking habits

The NIN found that storing acidic foods such as chutneys or sambar in iron, aluminium and unlined brass or copper vessels is unsafe. For non-stick pans, the NIN said that the risk exists if the heat while cooking exceeds 170 degree centigrade and added that non-stick pans should be discarded if their coating is worn out or damaged.

As far as the vessels made of granite stone are concerned, it is generally considered safe. If it contains Teflon coating, then cooking on medium to high flame is advisable. The institute gave a thumbs up to the use of granite-coated cookware.

Protein supplements best avoided: NIN

The National Institute of Nutrition advised Indians to restrict sugar intake to 20 to 25 grams a day, avoid protein supplements and reduce oils. The institute also okayed air-frying as a mode of cooking for usually oil-intensive food items. 

Another key suggestion is to decrease the use of cooking oil and obtain essential fatty acids through nuts, oilseeds, and seafood. 

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At the same time, it suggested that protein supplements are best avoided as the health risks associated with them apparently outweigh the benefits. 

"Protein powders may also contain added sugars, non-caloric sweeteners and additives such as artificial flavouring, hence, are not advisable for regular consumption. Proteins rich in branched-chain amino acids may increase the risk of non-communicable diseases. Consuming high levels of protein. especially in the form of supplement powders, is therefore not advisable," NIN said, as per The Times of India.

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NIN director Dr Hemalatha R, chairperson of the committee that formulated the guidelines, said in a statement that "healthy diets and physical activity can reduce a substantial proportion of coronary heart disease and hypertension, and prevent up to 80 per cent of type 2 diabetes."