Micronutrient deficiency hits Indian children

Chennai: With India ranking 97th of 118 nations (with widespread hunger levels) in the Global Hunger Index 2016, it has been found that the key underlying issue is micronutrient deficiency. With this in mind, dieticians in the state stress on the need for parents to make efforts to feed their children with a diverse diet. “The main issue here is micronutrient deficiency, which is also known as ‘hidden hunger’. It is the inadequate intake of crucial vitamins and minerals such as zinc, vitamin A and folate or Vitamin B9, which is essential for children to grow up mentally and physically healthy,” said dietician Dr Shanthi Raju.

The latest National Health Policy 2017,  published by the ministry of health on March 17, stressed on the need to address the micronutrient deficiencies through a well-planned strategy on micronutrient interventions. It declared that focus should be laid on reducing micronutrient malnourishment and augmenting initiatives like micro nutrient supplementation, food fortification, anemia screening and also creating public awareness.

“Parents today give in to their children’s demands and tantrums. Ensuring that children are given a diverse diet is essential. Most children stay as far away from greens and other vegetables. It is the duty of the parents to ensure that their children realize the importance of consuming vegetables and fruits,” said nutritionist Vasanthi R. “While the Government is taking steps through its initiatives, parents can champion this cause and make an immediate difference by feeding children a variety of cereals, legumes, fruits, vegetables, and animal-source foods to sustainably prevent micronutrient deficiency. At present, what constitutes a “balanced diet” for a mother is the home cooked healthy food she puts on her child’s plate,” she added.