Sutras for better nutrition

The government of India's 'Poshan Maah' (Nutrition Month) is yet again, this September, taking the message of nutrition to the remotest parts of the country.

Under the flagship multi-ministerial convergence mission Poshan Abhiyaan that seeks to improve the nutritional status of children up to six years of age, adolescent girls, pregnant women and lactating mothers, this year's Rashtriya Poshan Maah aimsat celebrating nutrition for behaviour change (Poshan Tyohaar se Vyavahaar) through a focus on 'Poshan ke 5 Sutra'.

Here we have some tips to maternal, infant and young childcare and feeding practices along with other related interventions such as growth monitoring, anaemia management, hygiene and sanitation etc.

S First golden 1000 days: This period that begins with 270 days of pregnancy, and ends with the baby's second birthday, is extremely critical where the child's physical and mental development is rapid.

To help fulfil the child's development potential, this phase requires the mother and child to receive good healthcare, optimal nutrition, responsive care, and institutional as well as societal support.

S Nutrition-rich foods: There is emphasis on the need for people in all age groups, including children from as early as six months of age to consume a variety of nutritious food in adequate quantities. This is particularly important for children up to six years of age, adolescent girls, pregnant women and lactating mothers.

S Anemia prevention: Furthering Government of India's vision of 'Anemia Mukt Bharat', this objective particularly aims at promoting foods that address the issue of anemia among children, lactating mothers and adolescent girls.

It also recognizes the linkages between maternal anemia and the nutritional status of young children that leads to stunting and underweight. 58.6% of children, 53.2 per cent of non-pregnant women and 50.4 per cent of pregnant women were found to be anaemic in 2016, as per NFHS data.

S Diarrhoea management: Diarrhoea accounts for 9 per cent of deaths among children under 5 years of age in India and is caused by viral illnesses. Under the government of India's flagship nutrition initiatives, diarrhoea management has been prioritized and proper guidelines issued.

S Hygiene and Sanitation: Ensuring good health needs more than the availability of nutritious food alone. Recognising that malnutrition also stems from poor hygiene and sanitation, 'Poshan Maah' also aims at improving awareness around water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) for better nutritional outcomes among children in India.