Article by Brian Murove & Ratidzo Njagu
Malnutrition refers to deficiencies, excesses or imbalances in a person’s intake of energy and/or nutrients. The term malnutrition covers two broad groups of conditions. The first is ‘under nutrition’ which includes stunting (low height for age), wasting (low weight for height), being underweight and micronutrient deficiencies or insufficiencies (a lack of important vitamins and minerals). The other is “over eating” which is primarily linked to obesity and non-communicable diseases (such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes etc.).
According to the Ministry of Health and Child Care in Zimbabwe, one in every three children suffers from chronic malnutrition or stunting. Although the Global Report 2018 for Zimbabwe shows that this has improved over time there is still much to be done. This article will be focusing on some of the ways to reduce malnutrition in Zimbabwe.
Nutrition Education
Educating families about nutrition is an important way of reducing the prevalence of malnutrition in our societies. By using a combination of educational strategies we can overcome some nutritional hurdles. While this can be done at a policy level it is also vital at a community and household level. The Kunashe Foundation Nutrition Programme provides fun and informative nutritional education in schools and communities- contact our team if you would like us to provide this training in your communities.
Nutritional Supplements
Understanding the value of readily available highly nutritious foods is key in ensuring women and children are receiving essential nutrients. Consumption of vitamin rich foods in the form of indigenous fruit and traditional foods can provide low cost readily available nutrients that can prevent malnutrition. A change in diet away from processed, high fat foods can have astounding results and can assist in improving the general health and wellbeing of children, increase the resistance to infectious illnesses and decreasing preventable deaths.
To learn more about nutrition visit our website www.kunashefoundation.org or email us at kunashefoundation@gmail.com
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