A crucial factor in enhancing child survival and fostering healthy growth and development is infant and young child nutrition. The first two years of a child’s life are particularly crucial because good nutrition during this time promotes overall better development, lowers morbidity and mortality, and lowers the chance of chronic diseases.
According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 2.7 million child fatalities per year, or 45% of all child mortality, are attributed to malnutrition.
A child’s growth and capacity for learning are enhanced by adequate nutrition prior to delivery, through the mother’s health, and during the early years of life. Additionally, healthy eating helps avoid disease.
Children that are underfed do not develop properly, they are smaller than other kids their age and are typically quite selective and less interested in eating food. When they play, they are less engaged in exploring and learning and are less energetic.
In addition, malnourished children are frequently unwell. A body that is already weak from insufficient nutrition is more prone to sicknesses.
Everyone in the society should work together to ensure that child nutrition is prioritized from conception, child’s birth and all through their development stages in order to ensure the society’s future healthiest generations.
Monday Health Burst is an initiative of CFHI to address issues of basic health concern. Join us every Monday on all our social media platforms for more episodes.
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