Despite strides in economic development, India continues to battle alarming levels of malnutrition. A national survey conducted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare revealed that 14% of the population remains undernourished, over 30% of children under five are stunted, and more than half of women and children are anaemic.
In addition to undernutrition, dietary and lifestyle shifts have led to rising obesity and chronic illnesses like diabetes. While a balanced diet is essential, experts argue that gut health—often overlooked—plays a pivotal role in how nutrients are absorbed and utilised by the body.
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The gut, sometimes called the “forgotten organ,” is home to nearly 100 trillion bacteria that aid digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune defence. However, poor dietary habits, antibiotic use, stress, and inadequate sleep can disrupt this balance, reducing beneficial bacteria and weakening gut function.
Probiotic foods, which deliver beneficial bacteria to the gut, are gaining recognition for their role in enhancing nutrient absorption, especially iron and calcium. Studies in India have shown that milk fortified with probiotics can improve iron levels in children and young women. Some probiotic strains also produce B-group vitamins that are often lost during cooking, potentially addressing widespread deficiencies.
Pregnant women, one of the most nutritionally vulnerable groups, may particularly benefit from probiotic support. Experts note that probiotics can ease digestive discomforts, enhance nutrient absorption, and help reduce the risk of low birth weight and premature delivery.
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For older adults, who face declining digestive health and immunity, certain probiotic strains have shown promise in reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and boosting beneficial bacteria.
Gut health has also been linked to brain function and mood regulation, with the gut often referred to as the body’s “second brain”. Nearly 70% of the immune system resides in the gut, underlining its importance in overall health. The COVID-19 pandemic brought this connection into sharp focus, as those with stronger immune systems fared better.
Experts assert that in line with ancient wisdom—from Ayurveda to Hippocrates—maintaining gut health is essential not just for nutrient uptake, but also for immunity and disease prevention. As India tackles both undernutrition and lifestyle-related health issues, focusing on gut health could be a crucial step in achieving sustainable, long-term wellbeing.
