Mother’s Nutrition has a lifelong impact on the child’s mental and physical heath. Maternal Malnutrition and Child Under nutrition results in stunting in less than 5 years age children and also Low Birth Weight (LBW). This has long term consequences like poor cognitive skills and susceptibility to infections.

India has a unique challenge which is the double burden of malnutrition. The CNNS (Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey) highlights overweight and obesity is common in Indian children also. A staggering 54% of Indians are anaemic. Hidden Hunger or micronutrient deficiencies are common in both the urban and rural population. Malnutrition in several forms is found in early adolescence and they also fail to meet the requirements of Physical activity. With more screen time and increase in consumption of junk foods there is increase in many micro nutrient deficiencies in both genders.

According to CNNS survey (2016-18) Top 3 Deficiencies in Boys & Girls

India being diverse in culture and food habits and varied socio economic strata it is difficult to tackle the problem of maternal malnutrition and under nutrition. Adhering to local traditional foods, RUTF (ready to use therapeutic foods) and sourcing local crops and produce is one simple and effective way to address local concerns in villages and districts. Communication in local language by the Health and ASHA workers on the importance of Nutrition will slowly bring about a change in the society. Socio Economic environment also contribute to malnutrition such as Gender Bias in the society (girl Child is neglected in some culture) education, sanitation & hygiene and of course poverty.

Key points to emphasize to tackle Malnutrition:

• Adequate Nutrition with Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation for women of Reproductive age and Expectant mothers
• Only Breast Feeding for the initial 6 months
• Infant and Young child feeding Practices to be counseled and its implementation monitored
• Introduction of Right Complementary Foods at 6 months along with Breast feeding
• Prevention of Anemia with Iron and Vitamin C rich foods
• Sanitation & Hygiene
• Prevention of Diarrhea
• Distribution of Fortified foods through ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) and PDS (Public Distribution System)
• Sourcing locally and encouraging local farming to be self-sustained
• Emphasizing on Dietary Diversity
• Monitoring SAM ( Severe Acute Malnutrition) children in Anganwadis
• Education to school kids on importance of Nutrition

With Covid-19 ravaging most parts of World including India the burden of Protein Energy Malnutrition is also predicted to become worse. Effective Communication in Local languages on the right local foods to consume and ensuring Food Security to all will go a long way in reducing Malnutrition.

Sreemathy Venkatraman
Clinical Nutritionist & Dietician
Brains Hospital
Bangalore

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