Ahmedabad: Gujarat has recorded one of the highest increases in daily fat intake in urban areas over the past 12 years, according to the latest National Sample Survey (NSS) report titled ‘Nutritional Intake in India 2023–24′.The report states that urban residents in Gujarat consumed 89.3g of fat per person per day in 2023–24, up from 68.5g in 2009–10, an increase of 20.8g. This is among the highest across major Indian states, with only Sikkim (112.1g), Chandigarh (101.1g), and Ladakh (91.8g) surpassing Gujarat. Nationally, the average rise in fat consumption in urban areas during this period was 16.8g.In contrast, the increase in protein intake was far more modest. The average daily protein consumption in urban Gujarat rose from 56.4g in 2009–10 to 59.4g in 2023–24, an increase of just 3g. This is slightly lower than the national average increase of 4.6g over the same period.On the calorie front, Gujarat presented a mixed picture. In rural areas, the average daily calorie intake stood at 2,105 kilo calories (Kcal), below the national rural average of 2,212 Kcal. However, in urban areas, the state’s average was 2,310 Kcal, higher than the national urban average of 2,240 Kcal.The NSS report also highlighted the primary sources of protein in Gujarat’s diet. Cereals remain the largest contributor, providing 47.3% of protein in rural areas and 40.4% in urban areas. This is followed by milk and milk products (15% rural, 16.3% urban), and pulses (10.6% rural, 11.2% urban). Animal-based proteins—fish, meat, and eggs—made up just 3.6% of protein intake in both segments, with the remainder coming from other sources.Speaking on the findings, Shruti Bhardwaj, chief clinical nutritionist at Zydus Hospital, said that while the rise in calorie and protein intake is encouraging, there’s scope for improvement. “Fat, protein, and carbohydrates are all essential macronutrients. The key is maintaining the right balance for optimal body function,” she said.Bhardwaj noted that individual nutritional needs vary depending on age, gender, occupation, and lifestyle. “For instance, a sedentary IT professional may require only 1,600 Kcal daily, not the 2,000 Kcal often recommended. Similarly, while 1 gram of protein per kg of body weight has been the norm, newer studies suggest that 0.8 grams per kg may suffice for most adults,” she added.She also emphasized the importance of dietary innovation to meet nutritional needs. “Simple changes like adding protein-rich ingredients to chapati flour can help meet daily requirements without relying on supplements,” she said.