Feed Our Future: My Take on Malnutrition
Would you believe if somebody told you “most of what you are today is a result of how you were brought up within the age of two?” Well, it is a fact that eighty percent of the human brain develops by the age of two from birth. Initially I found it hard to believe myself, but to my surprise many tests and researches have proven it to be true.
Some time back I got an opportunity to prepare a drama on the “importance of proper nutrition for children.” I was surely not an expert on the matter. So I went through the reports that UNICEF Nutrition Section provided for conceptual clarity. The reports were full of information on the importance of better nutrition to ensure the complete development of mind and body of a child. The resource materials stated that Nepal had a long way to go before it could ensure every household to have proper Nutrition as 50% of the children born in Nepal are malnourished which was alarming.
The more I studied the documents, the more I could understand. I could see that the consequences of malnutrition was not just within a family but could have a nationwide effect. Besides the physical factors malnutrition hampers children’s learning, and working capability as well. A poorly nourished child when grown up will not be able to put in his/her best efforts for optimum output hampering the national productivity.
The drama scripts developed were based on these key messages. The drama was screened during the launch program of "Tracking Progress on Child and Maternal Nutrition in Nepal" organized by the Ministry of Health with the support from UNICEF, Nepal. Young children from Hatemalo Sanchar( NGO working with young children on child rights and other children issues) acted in the play to remind the audience about the consequences of malnutrition. The play was well appreciated by governmental officials, journalists and other distinguished guests who were present there during the launch program.
After learning about all these consequences of malnutrition, I wish I could tell my parents how important good nutrition is and grow up once again with much healthier mind and body.
Words: Sabin Singh
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