Trends in Nutrient Intakes of Indian Adults: Computerized Diet Analysis (CDiet) of Cross-sectional Surveys between 1998 and 2015

Background: Time trends in nutrient intakes have been reported from household food consumption using food table values. However, accurate estimates of trends over the past decade in nutrient intakes using computerised nutrient analysis of Indian diets are lacking. Objectives: To examine changes in nutrient intakes of Indian adults by re-analysis of dietary food intakes between 1998 and 2015 with computerized diet analysis software, CDiet. Methods: Diets of men and women (20-60 years) from Western India in 1998-2000 (n=559), in 2007-2009 (n=638), and in 2013-2015 (n=1073) were assessed mostly using semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire by interview method. Daily nutrient intakes were calculated with laboratory- based food composition database using computerised diet analysis software (CDiet). Physical activity was assessed through a structured questionnaire and classified as; sedentary, light, and moderate activity level (PAL). Trends in mean nutrient intakes were evaluated using generalised linear regression model. Results: Over the past 17 years, trend estimates of energy intakes adjusted for age and PAL showed a decline of 11 to 19.7% for men, whereas an insignificant increase of 1 to 3% in women. Higher reduction (23 to 45%) was seen in intakes of iron, riboflavin, thiamine, and folate than in other micronutrients. Men with sedentary activity increased by 16.8%, whereas women having light/moderate activity increased by 7.2%. Conclusions: A decreasing trend in nutrient intakes over the last 17 years and an increase in sedentary behavior suggested the need for change in lifestyle and increased consumption of nutrient-- dense foods by Indian adults.