Nourishing Young Minds and Bodies: A Recipe for Success
Published on: June 14, 2024.
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Seema, a mother of four from Karachi, Pakistan, recalls a time when her children’s diet consisted mainly of bread and curry. She would break up the roti and mix it into the spiced curry, serving the same meal to her kids that she and her husband would eat. However, this approach often resulted in her children refusing to eat or experiencing digestive issues.
In an effort to find healthier and more nutritious options for her children, Seema attended a nutrition counselling session organized by UNICEF in the densely populated area of Lyari. These sessions aim to provide parents with advice and guidance on complementary feeding, focusing on different food groups and cooking methods to support their children’s overall health and well-being.
Seema emphasizes the value she has gained from these sessions, stating that it is her third time attending. Through the sessions, she has learned valuable methods to ensure her children receive a well-rounded diet. She now understands the importance of introducing vegetables, milk, eggs, and other nutrient-rich foods to her younger children who have transitioned to solid foods.
The UNICEF nutrition counselling sessions have proven to be a game-changer for Seema and many other parents in the community. The sessions not only empower parents with knowledge and practical tips but also address common misconceptions surrounding childhood nutrition.
It is crucial to provide children with a diverse and balanced diet during their early years, as this period is critical for their growth and development. The inclusion of essential nutrients from different food groups helps support their immune system, physical development, and cognitive function.
For parents like Seema, access to accurate and reliable information on complementary feeding has made a significant difference in the well-being of their children. With improved knowledge and understanding, they can make informed decisions about their children’s diet, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients for their overall health.
UNICEF, along with local partners, continues to organize these nutrition counselling sessions across different communities in Pakistan. By reaching out to parents and caregivers, they aim to create lasting changes in feeding practices and contribute to reducing malnutrition rates among children.
Source: UNICEF
