The Role of Nutrition Education in Preventing Moderate Acute Malnutrition

Moderate Acute Malnutrition (MAM) is a threat to children across the globe. MAM is currently affecting millions of children and world organizations have declared it a pressing issue that needs immediate attention. MAM is defined as a weight-for-height measurement that falls between 70–79% of the median of the WHO Growth Standard. It is a fatal condition and children prone to MAM have a poor quality of life. It is believed that inadequate food intake, poor quality of food, and repeated infections are the major underlying causes of MAM. However, this can be treated through a combination of nutritional and medical interventions, such as ready-to-use therapeutic food and micronutrient supplements.

50 million children under the age of 5 worldwide suffer from Moderate Acute Malnutrition (MAM). Roughly translating to 13% of all children under 5 globally.

Source — World Health Organization (WHO)

While the treatment is well-known and effective, prevention is still something that is not something most are aware of. As the famous saying goes ‘Prevention is better than cure’ — preventing MAM comes with educating parents and caregivers about MAM, its signs, and preventive measures. Nutrition education plays a huge role in preventing moderate acute malnutrition and very well might be the first step to fighting this fatal condition.

WHAT CAUSES MAM?

Moderate acute malnutrition is seen in children under 5 and in most cases older children too. The inability of their feeble bodies to absorb nutrients makes them prone to MAM. Inadequate consumption of food, poverty, poor quality of food, and unhealthy eating habits, mostly in underdeveloped countries can also be a cause for MAM. In addition, certain medical conditions can also be an underlying cause.

MAM is a complex and multifaceted condition and on diagnosis, an immediate treatment plan should be formulated. This includes a comprehensive approach that involves both nutritional and medical interventions, as well as improvements in access to healthcare, clean water, and sanitation. The treatment plan can also include the use of food supplements made from fortified peanut paste — a proven, safe, and cost-effective treatment plan for children with MAM.

NUTRITION EDUCATION TO PREVENT MAM

Preventative measures are important when it comes to combating this fatal condition and allowing the child to experience a hassle-free life. In developing and underdeveloped countries, the need for the right nutritional education is the need for the hour and we believe that with this comprehensive list, the key to a better quality of life for these children is a possibility.

AWARENESS: Raising awareness about moderate acute malnutrition is highly important among various socio-economic groups. Mothers and family members, especially caretakers, need to be educated on the importance of good nutrition, a balanced diet, nutritional needs for various stages of the child’s growth, and the negative health consequences of malnutrition. With the right education, families will be better equipped to make healthier food choices for children.

PROMOTE BREASTFEEDING: Breastfeeding can equip the child with a strong immune system to ward off the dangers of malnutrition. In addition, breastfeeding provides essential nutritional elements needed for the healthy growth of the child. It is recommended that mothers breastfeed children for a minimum of 2 years to strengthen their immunity and give them a strong immune system.

DIETARY DIVERSITY: Encouraging dietary diversity at a young age ensures that the child is getting a plethora of nutritional benefits from various food groups. A nutritious meal can be composed of various types of food groups that can serve the child in a manner that supports healthy development. The caregiver needs to be equipped with the right knowledge of food groups to give the child a wholesome meal that favors their development.

COMMUNITY: Being part of a community that actively educates parents and caregivers on the importance of nutrition and best practices to promote healthy eating while making informed decisions on the preparation of meals for children is highly important.

MAM is a complex condition, but with the right tools, it can be conquered and children can steer clear from the fatal clutches of MAM. It is highly advised that nutritional education becomes a mandate for parents and parents-to-be in developing and under-developed countries so as to effectively prevent malnutrition in any form and give the future generation a healthier tomorrow to look forward to.