The new year sparks hope for better health
outcomes, especially for children, but malnutrition remains a persistent
challenge.
Malnutrition continues to jeopardize the
growth, development, and overall well-being of Filipino children. Despite
progress in healthcare, many still face the effects of undernutrition, vitamin
deficiencies, and even obesity—issues often rooted in limited awareness and
access to proper resources.
Parents can set their children up for a
successful and healthy year ahead by providing them with a strong foundation of
proper nutrition and encouraging healthy eating habits.
Fuel children’s growth with the proper
nutrients they need to grow strong and thrive this year. Every step forward
begins with a solid foundation of health and proper nutrition.
Data from the Philippine Institute for
Development Studies (PIDS) and the Second Congressional Commission on Education
(EDCOM-2) indicates that one in three Filipino children experiences stunted
growth or malnutrition, which can have lasting effects on their physical and cognitive development.
Furthermore, the World Bank ranks the Philippines fifth in the East Asia and
Pacific region for the highest prevalence of stunting, placing it among the ten
countries worldwide with the highest number of stunted children.
One major factor contributing to
malnutrition is the lack of proper nutritional guidance, especially during
early childhood. This
gap leaves children vulnerable to undernourishment during critical early
development stages when both body and brain grow rapidly. The long-term
consequences of childhood malnutrition, particularly stunting, extend beyond
physical limitations, leading to poor cognitive development, lower educational
achievement, and decreased productivity in adulthood.
To tackle this issue, we need to understand
the root causes of malnutrition. Insufficient dietary intake, suboptimal
nutrient absorption, and inefficient nutrient utilization often contribute to
undernutrition in various forms, such as stunting (low height-for-age),
underweight (low weight-for-age), and wasting (low weight-for-height).
While access to food matters, ensuring that
children receive the proper nutrients is essential for combating malnutrition.
Parents must provide a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and
proteins to support physical and mental growth. Prioritizing nutrition reduces
stunting and fosters healthy development.
 |
Healthy growth and development begin in the kitchen. Preparing meals together ensures children get key macronutrients and essential minerals, laying a strong foundation for their well-being while strengthening family connections. |
It’s important to focus on key
macronutrients and minerals that support children's growth. Protein is
essential for children's growth and development as it supports tissue repair
and growth in muscles, skin, organs, and more. Including lean meats, dairy,
eggs, and legumes in meals ensures adequate intake. Additionally, growth
requires extra energy, and underweight children may need additional calories,
which should come from nutritious sources like healthy fats, carbohydrates, and
protein—not junk food.
Iron and zinc are also crucial for growth.
Iron helps deliver oxygen to the body’s cells and supports overall development,
with iron-rich foods like meat, eggs, and leafy greens being excellent sources.
Zinc plays a key role in cell growth and immune function, and deficiencies can
hinder development. Foods like beef, spinach, and beans are good sources of
zinc, helping children grow strong and healthy.
In addition, certain nutrients like
arginine and vitamin K2 are crucial for growth. Arginine supports bone cell
growth and stimulates growth hormone release, aiding in linear growth,
especially during delayed development. It can be found in nuts, grains,
legumes, meat, seafood, eggs, and dairy products.
Vitamin K2 aids calcium absorption and
transport into bones, promoting stronger bones and better bone density. It also
supports cardiovascular and dental health and helps regulate blood clotting. Fermented products like yogurt and cheese, along with animal-based foods like
meat and eggs, serve as excellent sources of vitamin K2.
While essential nutrients are readily
available in everyday foods, it’s beneficial to ensure that children receive
ample amounts to support their growing bodies and minds. If necessary, parents
should consult their pediatricians for guidance on supplements or formulations
that can help meet their child's nutritional needs.
Special formulations like PediaSure Plus,
scientifically designed with 37 growth nutrients, including Natural Vitamin K2
for strong bones and added Arginine for faster linear growth, offer targeted
support for children's development.
"Understanding and being attentive to
your children's dietary needs is vital for their growth and development.
Providing a balanced diet that includes essential nutrients like Arginine and
Vitamin K2 can promote bone growth and overall physical development. Ensuring
they receive proper nutrition through a healthy diet, supplemented with the
right formulations when necessary, optimizes their health and helps them reach
their full potential," said Dr. Jose Dimaano, Jr., Nutrition Medical
director for Asia Pacific at Abbott.
Incorporating Arginine and Vitamin K2 into
children’s diets presents an effective approach to addressing stunted growth.
By prioritizing these essential nutrients, parents and caregivers can
confidently support healthy growth and development of their children, helping
them start the year strong and reach their full potential in life.
Post a Comment