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Lifestyle Diseases ((NCDs) in India: Role of Beverages, Junk Food & Poor Diet Choices

By Dr. Anupam Goel in Cardiac Sciences , Cardiology , Interventional Cardiology

Jan 05 , 2026 | 1 min read

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), also known as lifestyle diseases, are on the rise in India. These include diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes, respiratory diseases, and certain cancers. Despite significant progress in controlling communicable diseases, the increasing prevalence of NCDs has placed a heavy burden on our healthcare system, leading to significant morbidity and mortality.

The primary reasons for this surge are stress, sedentary lifestyles, and unhealthy dietary habits. Our growing reliance on processed and ready-to-eat foods, which are high in cholesterol, saturated fats, trans fats, and sugar, is a major contributor. Sugar-sweetened beverages, another common dietary choice, are a significant source of calories and lead to weight gain.

A recent Household Consumption Expenditure Survey revealed that both urban and rural households are spending more on junk food, such as pizza, pasta, burgers, fried foods, and sugary beverages. Alarmingly, over 10% of an average Indian's expenditure goes towards these unhealthy options, contributing to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Adding to the problem, advertisements for processed foods and sugary beverages dominate our televisions and newspapers. Popular celebrities often endorse these products, making them even more appealing. Convenience plays a role as well; many people, tired after a long day, opt for quick, unhealthy food deliveries rather than preparing nutritious meals at home.

To combat this epidemic, it is crucial to spread awareness about the importance of a healthy diet. We need to encourage people to consume fresh foods, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, millet, and dairy-based products. These traditional components of an Indian diet are rich in fibre and nutrients and help prevent lifestyle diseases.

Replacing sugary beverages with healthier options like milk, lassi, fresh juices, or soups can significantly benefit our health. It is also important to highlight the benefits of home-cooked, light meals over processed foods. Awareness campaigns emphasising these dietary shifts are essential, and all stakeholders, including individuals, media, and health professionals, must work together to promote these messages.

By choosing wholesome, high-quality foods and avoiding processed sugary options, we can protect ourselves from the growing epidemic of non-communicable diseases.

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