India faces a profound dual (or double) burden of malnutrition (DBM), characterized by the coexistence of undernutrition (stunting, wasting, micronutrient deficiencies) and overnutrition (overweight/obesity and associated non-communicable diseases). National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5, 2019–21) data reveal household-level DBM prevalence of 7.7% among mother-child dyads, with child stunting at ~38%, underweight at ~32%, and adult overweight/obesity rising sharply to 21% from 10% in 2006. This paradox stems from rapid nutrition transition, urbanization, and unequal access to diverse foods. Nutrition-centric interventions emphasizing balanced, nutrient-dense diets combined with healthy lifestyles (physical activity, mindful eating) offer sustainable solutions. Traditional Indian cuisines—embodied in the *thali* system, millets, pulses, indigenous greens, and spices—provide double-duty benefits: high fiber and low glycemic index (GI) foods combat obesity while delivering bioavailable iron, calcium, vitamins, and protein to address deficiencies. This paper reviews epidemiological evidence, mechanistic roles, cultural dietary assets, lifestyle synergies, and policy recommendations. Promoting revival of these practices through education, agriculture, and POSHAN Abhiyaan could simultaneously reduce both burdens, fostering equity and sustainability.
Roopali Bhargava (Sat,) studied this question.
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