A healthy child is always a happy child. Nowadays, people are more aware that health not only means physical but also cognitive. The food one eats has a significant impact on both physical and mental health. So, investment in child nutrition is important to nurture a healthy future. Let’s discuss in detail about the effect of nutrition on child growth and development.
Importance of nutrition in childhood
There is a saying, “You can't build a great building on a weak foundation.” For human beings, childhood is the foundation that determines their destiny. It plays a key role in their physical and mental development. So, good food, both for body and mind, is crucial during this stage. Nutrition has a strong connection with one’s physical and mental well-being. Therefore, if children do not receive adequate nutrient-rich meals, it prevents them from enjoying a happy and healthy childhood, which ultimately affects their future.
Role of nutrition in child’s physical health
Nutrition makes children physically fit and influences them positively. Lack of adequate nutrition leads to health issues such as stunting, wasting, anaemia, poor bone health and a weakened immune system. When children receive healthy food it ensures their long-term well-being. So, giving adequate nutrition is essential for them to grow and thrive in the future.
The two types of nutrients are:
- Macronutrients: These are the nutrients that the body needs in large amount to function properly. The three types of macronutrients are carbohydrates, proteins and fat.
- Micronutrients: These are the nutrients such as vitamins and minerals that the body requires in small amount. They play a significant role in multiple body functions including metabolism.
Role of nutrition in child’s mental Health
Nutrition has a direct relation with the happiness of children. If they don’t get enough nutrition, it can also cause serious damage to their mental health. Various studies have shown that nutritional deficiencies can cause severe social-emotional issues in children. For instance, they might struggle to concentrate in school, feel disconnected from their peers and face exclusion or ridicule because of their appearance or behaviour. In this state, anxiety and depression can easily take hold, clouding young minds with a sense of hopelessness and inadequacy. Thus, their potential, once bright with promise, becomes overshadowed by the weight of their circumstances.
PM POSHAN Abhiyaan – A significant step to enhance child Nutrition
Children, especially in developing countries, are more vulnerable to the issues of malnutrition. Understanding this, numerous governments have implemented various programmes to address this problem. PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (formerly known as the Mid-Day Meal Programme) is one such initiative by the Government of India to tackle this issue. Under this programme, the government ensures that children studying in government and government-aided schools receive nutritious meals every day.
The majority of children studying in government schools are from financially limited backgrounds. Due to their difficult circumstances they often discontinue their studies and choose to do informal jobs that are low-paying and insecure. Or else, they choose to sit at home doing the household chores and looking after their siblings. Mid-day meals act as an incentive for children to come to school. By providing mid-day meals every day, the government bridges the inequality gap in children receiving nutrition. It gives them the energy to concentrate on classes and yield good academic results. Thus, the promise of healthy meals every day alleviates the issues of absenteeism and poor academic performance.
Collaboration with NGOs shows an effective implementation of MDM
The successful implementation of the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) programme involves collaborative efforts between the government and various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to ensure every child receives adequate nutrition. Among these organisations, The Akshaya Patra Foundation stands out as a prominent NGO in India, dedicated to providing mid-day meals to schools across the nation. The organisation’s journey that started in the year 2000 with 1,500 children from 5 schools in Bengaluru, Karnataka, has now reached feeding 2.2 million children in 16 states and 2 UTs. One notable aspect of their approach is the use of fortified grains in meal preparation. By incorporating these nutrient-rich ingredients, the organisation ensures that the meals meet the necessary nutritional standards, thereby contributing to the overall health and well-being of the children. The kitchens are strategically positioned in 72 locations, thus aiming to serve children in every nook and corner of the country who face challenges in receiving nutritious meals.
Ensure nourishment with NGOs in India like Akshaya Patra
Ensuring every child’s access to proper nutrition is not just about filling their stomachs; it is also about nurturing their spirits and giving them a chance to pursue their dreams. Akshaya Patra’s vision is to ensure that ‘no child in India shall be deprived of education because of hunger’ and thus create a world where every child feels seen, valued and loved regardless of their circumstances.
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