Busy schedules, changing lifestyles and health concerns are reshaping how young people approach their diets. Concerns over early-onset diabetes and other lifestyle-related health problems are also making them rethink their eating habits, from cutting back on junk food to paying more attention to nutrition.
About 72% of respondents in South India said they prioritise a healthy, balanced diet among their top five aspects of physical health, compared with 65% across the rest of India. The focus is even stronger in Bengaluru and Hyderabad, where 75% of respondents gave priority to a balanced diet.
Beyond eating habits, the figures also point to concerns in other areas of well-being. While physical health scored 68 out of 100 nationally, only 49% of respondents reported strong focus and clarity of mind, and 47% said they felt confident about adapting to sudden change. South India recorded an overall health score of 63, slightly below the national score of 65.
The data comes from the ManipalCigna India Health Quotient 2026, which surveyed urban Indians across 16 cities, including Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi and Coimbatore.
Having health insurance was also linked to better overall well-being. Those with health insurance scored 68 out of 100, compared with 62 among those without it. The six-point gap was seen across regions, age groups, genders and stress levels, with insured respondents also scoring higher on physical, mental and financial wellbeing.
“The India Health Quotient asks a simple question: how does India actually feel? It shows that health is multi-dimensional, with people balancing physical, mental, financial, work and social wellbeing, and gaps in one area often affecting the others.
“South India stands out for its focus on healthy eating, with 72% prioritising a balanced diet, rising to 75% in Bengaluru and Hyderabad. However, this physical discipline does not fully offset everyday pressures. Across regions, we also see that health insurance ownership helps narrow wellbeing gaps, showing that protection is an important part of overall wellbeing,” said Sapna Desai, Chief Marketing Officer, ManipalCigna Health Insurance.
Overall, the numbers reflect a broader shift towards healthier choices, while showing that well-being depends on more than diet and physical health alone.
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