Nourishing the Future: A Deep Dive into Complementary Feeding

It is ironic that one-third of children in our country are short in height or stunted, and one-fourth are underweight or have wasting.?

As a budding public health professional, I was fascinated by importance of complementary feeding on child development.?

Understanding Complementary Feeding

Complementary feeding is the semisolid or solid food provided to a baby alongside breastfeeding after six months of exclusive breastfeeding.?

After six months of age, a child’s nutritional needs exceed what breast milk alone can provide. The child requires iron, zinc, and many other micronutrients that are not available in breast milk. This is the time when complementary feeding plays a vital role in the growth and development of the child.?

Why Complementary Feeding Matters

Iron and zinc are not only necessary for the physical growth or height and weight of the child but also for their cognitive development—that is, their ability to understand and learn.?

The Challenge of Under-Five Malnutrition

Despite significant economic progress in India in recent past, under-five undernutrition remains a major public health concern.?

Lack of awareness, traditional dietary practices, and food insecurity are some of the reasons for this situation. Further, poor hygiene and sanitation compound the problem.?

Many mothers are not aware that feeding only rice and dal to a child of six months or more is not sufficient; the child needs green vegetables, eggs, fish, or other meat products.

?Role of Public Health professionals

Public health professionals can play a crucial role in addressing these challenges by:?

~ Community Mobilization: Engaging community leaders and health workers to promote adequate complimentary feeding practices.?

~ Education and Awareness Campaigns: Disseminating information about the importance of timely and appropriate complementary feeding.?

~ Policy Advocacy: Advocating with governments and authorities for policies that support early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, and adequate complementary feeding.

~ Strengthening Health Systems: Ensuring access to adequate nutrition and essential health-care services to all.?

Let's all work together to reduce undernutrition in children!