Source: DTE
Context: Inadequate dietary diversity and meal frequency contribute to child malnutrition in India, including stunting and micronutrient deficiencies.
What is Minimum Dietary Diversity?
Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) refers to a recommended standard set by the World Health Organization (WHO) for children aged 6-23 months. It suggests that during the previous day or within 24 hours, children should consume foods and beverages from at least five of the eight defined food groups.
Aim of the MDD:
It aims to ensure that children receive a diverse range of nutrients to meet their nutritional needs and promote their healthy growth and development.
Status of MDD:
India has a significantly low proportion of children (15 per cent) who meet MDD, followed by Nepal (34 per cent), which suggests that South Asian countries are trailing behind in terms of MDD
Need of MDD:
Poor-quality diets during the first two years of life can have long-lasting effects on a child’s health and development. India has high rates of child malnutrition, with a low proportion of children meeting the MDD.
About WHO initiative:
WHO has developed guidelines for Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices, with MDD being one of the core indicators. The eight food groups used for the tabulation of this indicator are:
- Breast milk
- Grains products
- Vegetables such as roots, tubers, plantains
- Pulses (beans, peas, lentils)
- Nuts, seeds
- Dairy products (milk, infant formula, yoghurt, cheese)
- Flesh foods (meat, fish, poultry, organ meats), eggs
- Vitamin-A-rich fruits and vegetables
Suggestions:
Breast milk alone is not sufficient after 6-8 months, and complementary solid or semi-solid foods are necessary. Socioeconomic factors and maternal education play a significant role in MDD inequalities. National programs like the POSHAN Abhiyaan need to be strengthened further. Relying solely on supplements and fortification may not be enough.
