Well-being through Nutrition!

Dear Reader,

India is one of the India fastest growing countries in terms of population and economics. Despite its economic growth, India tops the rank among other countries in the world for the number of children suffering from malnutrition. The prevalence of underweight children in India is among the highest in the world.

Malnutrition is caused by eating a diet in which nutrients are not enough. Major causes of malnutrition include poverty, high food prices, dietary practices and agricultural productivity. Nutrition deficiencies are not co- related with the amount of food you are taking. It's about quality and NOT quantity.

Nutrition, as the focal point, is essential for the well-being of a nation. To counter this serious problem, various government and non- government organizations conduct activities and programs. For our part, we could also try the following... every small effort is bound to help!

✓ A visit to the slums in your neighbourhood can be organized to create awareness.

✓ Demonstration and distribution of simple nutritional recipes can be done.

✓ Healthier food choices may be encouraged.

✓ The importance of exercise can be emphasized.

✓ Skits or street plays can be held to create mass awareness.

High food prices, dilapidation of natural resources, globalization and climate change are a few major food security challenges. Strengthened government mechanisms, effective coordination and development of socio-economic status of the poor can make a real difference.