Q: I enjoy eating, but I am not careful about what I eat. Is it true that what we eat can affect our health? If so, could you please explain how?

AS, Jamshedpur

Studies of food habits of people have revealed a co-relationship between diet, health and disease. Some of the food we eat can lead to chronic diseases while others can actually promote health and longevity. The entire human body is made from and is dependent on 46 nutrients for its proper functioning and growth, namely the nine essential fatty acids, 13 vitamins, 21 minerals, and glucose besides water, oxygen and light.

Research in the US estimates that one-third of all cancers, half of all heart diseases and a significant proportion of diabetes and high blood pressure are linked to our diet. In India, we can add to this list allergies, asthma, gastritis, joint diseases, eczema, vision problems, osteoporosis and fractures to name a few.

The adult human body contains about 100 trillion cells. These cells are surrounded by a fluid called the “extra-cellular fluid” which is in continuous motion throughout the body. This fluid contains oxygen and various nutrients needed by the cells to maintain their life. Thus all the body cells live in an environment that is homogeneous and constant. This kind of a state is called homeostasis. As long as the cells keep getting from their surrounding extra-cellular fluid the above mentioned 46 nutrients derived from the food we eat, the cells are able to live, grow and function normally and we remain in good health. However, if the food we eat is deficient in these essential nutrients or contains unwanted chemicals, the harmonious conditions (homeostasis) of the extra-cellular fluid can be thrown out of balance and can cause diseases.

Here are some of the imbalances in the average Indian diet that can trigger the underlying disease process:

• An excessive intake of omega-6 fats (found in sunflower oil, safflower oil, corn oil) and very little intake of omega-3 fats (found in fish oil, soy beans and walnuts) resulting in increased production of the bad PGE-2 prostaglandins leading to chronic inflammatory diseases and cancer.

• An increased intake of the unhealthy trans-fatty acids found in processed and bakery foods as well as in deep fried foods leading to increased atherosclerosis and heart disease.

• Low intake of high quality protein resulting in poor immunity and reduced ability to handle stress.

• Excessive consumption of refined, processed and fast foods along with decreased vegetable and fruit consumption resulting in decreased intake of fibre, vitamins and protective phytochemicals leading to a host of diseases.