Abstract
Objective: An annualised linear growth velocity (LGV) reference can identify groups of children at risk of growing poorly. As a single velocity reference for all preschool ages does not exist, we present an interim tool, derived from published, normative growth studies, for detecting growth faltering, illustrating its use in Nepali preschoolers.
Dietary diversity can play an important role in providing essential nutrients for both mother and fetus during pregnancy. This study aimed to assess the factors associated with dietary diversity during pregnancy in the western hill region of Nepal.
Background:
The 2015 earthquake in Nepal caused massive damages and triggered relief activities to minimize human suffering. The post-earthquake nutrition and food security situation in the hardest hit areas remains uncertain.
Methods:
Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 of zero hunger and malnutrition by 2030 will require dietary shifts that include increasing the consumption of nutrient dense foods by populations in low- and middle-income countries. Animal source foods are known to be rich in a number of highly bioavailable nutrients that otherwise are not often consumed in the staple-food based diets of poorer populations throughout the world.
Abstract
Abstract: Animal source foods (ASF) provide nutrients essential to child growth and development yet remain infrequently consumed in rural Nepal. Agriculture and nutrition programs aim to increase ASF intake among children through small-scale animal husbandry projects. The relationship between livestock ownership and children’s consumption of ASF, however, is not well established. This study examined associations between livestock ownership and the frequency with which Nepali children consume eggs, dairy, and meat.
Optimal breastfeeding practices, reflected by early initiation and feeding of colostrum, avoidance of prelacteal feeds, and continued exclusivity or predominance of breastfeeding, are critical for assuring proper infant nutrition, growth and development.
Micronutrient deficiencies account for an estimated one million
premature deaths annually, and for some nations can reduce gross
domestic product1,2 by up to 11%, highlighting the need for food
policies that focus on improving nutrition rather than simply
increasing the volume of food produced3. People gain nutrients from
a varied diet, although fish—which are a rich source of bioavailable
micronutrients that are essential to human health4—are often
overlooked. A lack of understanding of the nutrient composition