Malnutrition
Description
Malnutrition
Description: Read about concept of Malnutrition, its impact, factors leading to it and steps needed for tackling it. It is important for GS Mains Paper 2 and 3
Malnutrition remains one of the most pressing issues
facing our world today, affecting millions of individuals across the globe,
particularly in developing countries. Despite significant progress in various
areas of healthcare, malnutrition continues to be a significant barrier to
human development and well-being.
Malnutrition encompasses a range of conditions that
result from an inadequate or unbalanced diet. It doesn't just mean a lack of
food; it also includes consuming an excess of unhealthy foods that lack
essential nutrients. This condition can manifest in different forms, including
undernutrition, overnutrition, and micronutrient deficiencies.
Impact of Malnutrition
It’s common knowledge that good nutrition is critical
for overall health, but what’s not as well-known is the two-way relationship
between nutritional deficiencies and certain disorders. Consistent intake of
food lacking in essential micronutrients can lead to iron deficiency anaemia
and Vitamin A, and zinc deficiency, and impair immunity. Conversely, conditions
such as celiac disease and infections like h. pylori or worm infestations can
disturb the digestive system, leading to nutrient deficiencies. Malnutrition
caused by micronutrient deficiency has inter-generational impacts — anaemic
mothers are known to give birth to anaemic babies.
Government
programmes like Anaemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) are among the biggest targeted
measures to tackle the disorder. It involves administering iron and folic acid
(IFA) tablets and other prophylactic measures. The Mid-day Meal Scheme for
school children is another such intervention. However, challenges of effective
implementation persist.
Factors Contributing to Malnutrition
Several factors contribute to the
prevalence of malnutrition. Poverty is a significant driver, as it limits
access to nutritious foods and healthcare services. Poor agricultural
practices, food insecurity, lack of education about proper nutrition, and
inadequate sanitation also play crucial roles in exacerbating malnutrition in
communities.
In ancient times, diets were diverse and balanced,
exemplified by the traditional thaali, which comprised cereals, pulses,
vegetables, and spices. Consumption of fruits, nuts, seeds, and dairy ensured
nutritional adequacy. However, contemporary dietary patterns have shifted
towards processed, sugar-laden foods, lacking essential nutrients. Encouraging
people to reduce processed food consumption is vital for improving health
outcomes.
Challenges in
Access to Balanced Diets
FAO data indicates that approximately 46 percent of
South Asia's population lacks access to an affordable balanced diet. In India,
The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World, 2023, reports that 74
percent of the population cannot afford a healthy diet, and 39 percent lack
nutrient-adequate food. Recent government initiatives such as Large-Scale Food
Fortification (LSFF) aim to address these challenges, complementing existing
efforts.
The Potential
of Food Fortification
While food fortification is not a novel concept in
India, its widespread adoption remains a challenge. The success of iodised salt
under the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme highlights the
potential of fortification. Current efforts include fortifying staples like
wheat flour, rice, edible oils, and salt with essential micronutrients.
Promoting
Awareness and Acceptance
Awareness is crucial for the acceptance of fortified
foods among beneficiaries. Addressing concerns about appearance and texture
requires intensive information, education, and communication (IEC) campaigns.
Highlighting the stringent standards of fortification and dispelling
misconceptions, such as the risk of iron toxicity, is essential. Research indicates
that the iron content in fortified foods is similar to naturally occurring
levels and poses no significant health risks.
Strategies for
Greater Awareness
To foster awareness, diverse communication channels
such as community radio, videos, and door-to-door outreach should be utilized.
Messages delivered in local languages enhance comprehension and help build
trust while dispelling misconceptions. Embracing healthier dietary practices at
individual and community levels, coupled with state-level interventions like
LSFF, is imperative for addressing malnutrition effectively.
