Impact of Socio-Economic Status and Seasons on Nutrient Adequacy of Rural Families of Central Plain Zone of Punjab

Abstract

Punjab is a prosperous state in India with the highest per capita income' and lifestyles similar to that of industrialized western population. About 70 per cent of Punjab's population reside in villages. Due to the adoption of new technologies, daily activity pattern of rural families has changed from heavy to moderate. This is particularly true of the central plain zone of the state. The agricultural development and adoption of mechanization is affecting their food and nutrient intake. People are ignorant about their dietary requirements and prefer to consume energy dense foods. Improper dietary practices increase the risk of diet related chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and hypertension. Diet surveys are carried out to determine the nutrient adequacy of various population groups. Most of the studies available supply information on total food intake while data on individual food and nutrient intake are scanty.