ere are some facts about our food habits that you probably were not aware of.

1. According to the latest NSSO survey released by the Delhi government, Delhiites spend Rs 371, on an average, processed food and beverages per month. They spend Rs 290 on vegetables and around one-third of it on fruits.

2. The rest of urban India spends Rs 384 per month on processed food and Rs 290 on vegetables.

3. Rural India spends Rs 264 on junk and processed food and Rs 284 on vegetables.

"Eating processed food, junk food and beverages, like cold drinks, has become a way of life. Some level of awareness is coming in, but that is once a person becomes ill and approaches the doctor," says Dr Manish Mohil, an internal medicine expert at G M Modi Hospital, New Delhi.

Dr Rajeev Passi, cardiologist, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, agrees: "People generally do not go in for fruits and
vegetables because of low socio-economic conditions. Most people -- even from high income groups -- start this sort of diet once their bad cholesterol levels increase or when the coronary artery disease starts."

Doctors say:

~ The earlier you start a regular diet of wholegrains, fruits and vegetables, the better it is for your health. It has been proved that these things protect against multiple diseases, like cancer, heart attack and blood pressure.

~ The per capita consumption of fruits and vegetables in India remains as low as 130 grams per day. Even the Chinese consume 300 grams to 350 grams of fruits and vegetables per day.

Research shows the main inhibiting factor is the high costs.

"The availability and price factor of fresh fruits and vegetables are two main factors. A samosa, tikki or burger are available everywhere at a very low cost compared to fresh fruits," says Dr Mohil.

But why not consider inexpensive, seasonal fruits in your diet? They are just as important!

Change this 'newly adopted food culture'!

A recent study conducted at the University of Minnesota recently found that those who ate wholegrains had a lower risk of death and also a lower risk of heart disease.

They also found this positive association with fruit and vegetable intake.

That is why doctors urge that you must be aware. You must consider alternative healty foods and diets.

Fruits and vegetables fight a number of health ailments. They offer the best protective medicine if you want to be healthy.