New Delhi, Oct.10,2025:The ICMR Study 2025 has issued a stark warning to Indian households: overconsumption of rice and roti — staples of the Indian diet — could be driving an alarming rise in diabetes, obesity, and metabolic disorders across the country. Conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in collaboration with the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF), this large-scale study offers deep insight into how India’s eating patterns are affecting public health-
According to the research, 62% of India’s daily energy intake comes from carbohydrates, primarily white rice, wheat, and processed grains. These foods, though culturally integral, are significantly contributing to poor metabolic health outcomes.
High Carbohydrate Dependence in Indian Diets
The ICMR Study 2025 examined food consumption habits across 30 states and union territories, involving adults aged 20 years and above. The results reveal a concerning pattern — most Indians rely heavily on refined carbohydrates while consuming inadequate protein and fibre.
The data showed-
- Carbohydrates: 62.3% of total daily energy
- Fats: 25.2%
- Proteins: only 12%
The study also highlighted that processed grains contribute 28.5% and whole grains contribute 16.2% to total carbohydrate intake. Such an imbalance between nutrient groups makes Indians highly vulnerable to metabolic conditions like Type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Diabetes and Obesity Connection Explained
Published in Nature Medicine, the ICMR study notes that individuals consuming the highest levels of carbohydrates are 30% more likely to develop diabetes compared to those on low-carb diets. Additionally, the risks of general obesity increase by 22% and abdominal fat accumulation by 15%.
India already accounts for nearly one-fourth of the world’s diabetes cases, a number that continues to grow faster than in most countries. The report attributes this to excessive carbohydrate consumption, coupled with a sedentary lifestyle.
Processed vs Whole Grains – The Hidden Truth
While traditional wisdom suggests that whole grains like millets or brown rice are healthier alternatives, the ICMR Study 2025 warns that merely switching from processed to whole grains may not be enough.
The research indicates that even unprocessed wheat or millet flours do not significantly reduce diabetes risk when consumed in excess. This is because high carbohydrate intake — regardless of its source — leads to elevated blood sugar and insulin resistance over time.
Nutrition experts emphasize balancing grains with protein-rich foods and fibre, which help slow down sugar absorption.
What Experts Are Saying About the Findings
Dr. Vibhuti Rastogi, Senior Dietitian at the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS), told that Indian diets are indeed “too carb-heavy and too low in protein,” which accelerates the onset of lifestyle diseases.
“Both refined and simple carbohydrates, such as sugar, can increase diabetes risk. But when combined with low protein intake, the damage happens faster,” Dr. Rastogi explained.
Similarly, Nazneen Hussain, Head Dietitian at Dietetics for Nutrify Today (Mumbai), highlighted that the type of carbohydrate also matters.
“If you eat rotis made from refined flour, they’re almost as bad as polished rice. Choose coarse or fibre-rich flour to slow blood sugar spikes,” she advised.
She also noted that brown rice or unpolished small-grain rice are healthier alternatives but must be eaten in moderation and with fibre, dal, or vegetables for balance.
Regional Differences in Health Risks
The study found striking regional variations in obesity and metabolic disease rates:
- North India: 54% overweight, 37% obese, and 48% had abdominal obesity
- East India: Showed the best metabolic health indicators nationwide
- Overall: 83% of participants showed at least one metabolic risk factor
Additionally, 27% of adults nationwide suffer from hypertension, a condition often linked with excess carbohydrate and sodium intake. Interestingly, these trends showed little regional difference — indicating a nationwide dietary imbalance.
How to Reduce Carbohydrate-Related Health Risks
Experts recommend gradual dietary transitions rather than drastic eliminations. Here’s how to make daily Indian meals healthier, based on ICMR’s recommendations:
- Reduce refined grains: Replace white rice with brown rice, millets, or quinoa.
- Increase protein intake: Add dals, paneer, eggs, tofu, or lean meats.
- Add healthy fats: Use nuts, seeds, and olive or mustard oil instead of saturated fats.
- Control portion sizes: Especially for rice and roti at dinner.
- Include fibre-rich foods: Vegetables, salads, and legumes improve digestion and metabolism.
Lifestyle Changes to Control Diabetes Risk
Beyond diet, the ICMR Study 2025 found that 61% of participants were physically inactive. Regular exercise can reduce Type 2 diabetes risk by up to 50%, according to global health data.
Recommended lifestyle changes–
- Walk or exercise at least 30 minutes daily
- Practice yoga or light resistance training
- Limit sugary drinks and late-night snacking
- Sleep 7–8 hours daily
- Get routine blood sugar check-ups, especially if above 30
Combining these habits with balanced nutrition can reverse early-stage metabolic disorders, experts say.
The Way Forward for a Healthier India
The ICMR Study 2025 is a wake-up call for India’s food culture. While rice and roti remain dietary staples, overreliance on these high-carb foods is quietly eroding public health. With nearly 83% of adults showing metabolic risks, the nation must rethink its traditional plate.
Nutrition experts unanimously agree — moderation, balance, and movement are key. By incorporating more proteins, healthy fats, and fibre, alongside regular physical activity, India can curb the rising tide of diabetes and obesity.
