Hidden hunger is caused by micronutrient deficiency i.e. the lack of minerals and vitamins that are essential in small amounts, for adequate growth and development of the human body. Thus, hidden hunger is a form of malnutrition wherein their intake or absorption is not enough to sustain overall good health. Micronutrient deficiency can lead to low immunity levels, hampered motor and cognitive development, stunted growth or even increased morbidity and mortality. However, unlike under-nutrition, its signs and effects are usually “invisible” and hence, are often ignored or remain unnoticed. Clinical signs include night blindness caused by Vitamin A deficiency, goiter due to inadequate intake of iodine etc. Certain micronutrient deficiencies lead to development disorders and are interlinked in complex ways.
The burden of hidden hunger in India is reflected in the persistently high levels of anemia prevalent especially amongst women and children, despite the presence of a massive iron and folic acid supplementation program running since 2012. Often, the micronutrient needs of people remain unmet due to poor diets, disease or lack of adequate nutrition during pregnancy and lactation (FAO 2013). Moreover, the malnutrition problem in India reflects a unique development paradox i.e. rapid economic growth alongside decelerating decline in under-nutrition. Inherent discrepancies exist between the recommended daily allowance of a specific vitamin and the personal requirements of individuals.
The transition from traditional diets to highly processed and energy-dense ones that are high on calories but low on micronutrient content or those centered around staple crops like wheat, rice and maize, is a major contributor to the problem of hidden hunger in India. In rural areas, diets complete with different types of pulses, millets, oilseeds and seasonal vegetables are being replaced by the subsidized wheat and rice supplied by the Public Distribution system or the mid-day meal scheme. This transition contributes to the triple burden of malnutrition in India i.e. under-nutrition, micronutrient deficiency and over-nutrition (obesity). The consumption of locally produced and diverse foods, including nutrient-rich vegetables and foods, are key to curbing hidden hunger.
Poverty or budget constraints limit access to dietary diversity. A rise in food prices entails consumers to focus on affordable staple foods while cutting down the consumption of non-staple foods that are rich in micronutrients. Diversification of diets entails the inclusion of food items that belong to different food groups as all the micronutrient requirements cannot be fulfilled from a couple of food groups. This implies the regular intake of different types and varieties of foods in adequate quantities. Food fortification is a cost-effective approach to address the issue of micronutrient deficiencies, beyond the relatively narrow solution of providing vitamin supplements. This implies enriching food items to boost their micronutrient content and nutritional value.
The nutritional challenge of hidden hunger calls for urgent and sustained action, both, at the policy and ground level, especially amongst the most vulnerable sections of the population that are trapped in an intergenerational cycle of nutrition deprivation. This entails comprehensive and cross-sectoral action by multiple stakeholders like the government, private sector, NGOs and international organizations. This will ensure faster, inclusive and sustainable growth of healthy and productive citizens.
India Outbound
November 23, 2018
source https://indiaoutbound.org/hidden-hunger-an-invisible-menace-in-india/
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