A recent survey conducted by the Indian Market Research Bureau (IMRB) found that 9 out of 10 people went to sleep with hunger – not because of lack of food, but due to the lack of protein. This can lead to health problems like anaemia and liver problems, said renowned consultant nutritionist Dr Dharini Krishnan. 

The survey with more than 1,200 respondents from metro cities found excessive consumption of starch and fat but less proteins. “This hidden hunger causes people to go into malnutrition… Besides, it also affects our immunity,” Dr Krishnan said, pointing out that this also would impact the haemoglobin, leading to problems in oxygen transport.

“The lack of proper understanding about protein sources is one of the main reasons why this problem of hidden hunger is extremely high in our State,” said dietician Dr Bhavana K.  

There has been a rise in the number of youngsters suffering from hidden hunger. Earlier, children would eat whatever was cooked and served. However, parents today tend to give option to children, who would surely prefer food like potatoes and the like, said Dr Krishnan. “There is balance of nutrition, which comes from tradition. We have now moved to eating things which are easy to cook and packed – all of which lack protein and are only high in carbs and fat,” she added. 

Meanwhile, a movement with the aim of raising protein awareness in Tamil Nadu was launched on Wednesday.