As per a report released by Global Hunger Index (GHI), in 2017, there are around 184 million undernourished people in India. The same year reported 70% anaemic pre-school children, 59% anaemic pregnant women, and 24% anaemic men. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, which is termed as ‘Hidden Hunger’, is a growing problem in India. Hidden Hunger is prevalent in both the developing and the developed world.
Can ‘Hidden Hunger’ be dealt with? Yes, it is quite possible to reverse the condition of hidden hunger to ensure that your baby receives all the essential nutrients required for overall bodily growth. There are a number of foods that you can feed your child to ensure that he/she doesn’t suffer from hidden hunger.
Rice Gruel
The rice is mashed and then added to the water. You can even add mashed vegetables and dal to increase its nutrient content. Rice gruel is a rich source of calcium, starch, protein and vitamins.
Breast Milk
Breast milk is the best source of fat, carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, minerals, amino acids and enzymes.
Bananas
Bananas are soft to chew and swallow. It contains potassium, vitamin B6 and C, calcium and iron.
Lentils
Lentils are a rich source of copper, phosphorous, manganese, vitamin B1, pantothenic acid, zinc, potassium and vitamin B6.
Sweet Potato and Pumpkin Mash
Sweet Potato and pumpkin mash contain beta-carotene in abundance. It is usually given to the baby in a mashed form.
Pulses and Beans
The easiest way to ensure that your baby receives iron and vitamin C in sufficient quantities is to mix cooked pulses with vegetables or fruits.
Iron-fortified food
Baby foods, alongside breast milk, should be iron fortified as iron is crucial for the baby’s growth. Iron is necessary to facilitate the process of delivering oxygen to the various parts of the body through blood cells. You can ensure a consistent intake of iron for your baby through iron-fortified cereals.
Your focus should always be to provide all the vital nutrients such as vitamins, carbohydrates, protein, and iron regularly. The occurrence of hidden hunger is so close at home that your young one should be prevented from undergoing this condition in every way possible. One of the best ways to avert hidden hunger is to constantly monitor the baby’s diet or meal plan.
Micro nutrients are an effective solution for hidden hunger. Find out how in the article titled ‘Essential Micro-nutrients that Prevent Hidden Hunger’.
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