Obesity in children is increasing, government said, change in standards is necessary

Till now only thin and underweight children were at the centre of the nutrition policy of the government, but now the government will also run a campaign to reduce obesity or tackle the problem of overweight. Various studies have been shown to the government that the catering and nutrition standards that have been created keeping in mind the shortcomings are no longer sufficient. Therefore, many different working groups of the government have been created to study the new problems and needs of children. . These working groups are discussing new standards

Why the need arose

For example, iron deficiency was believed to be the biggest cause of anemia in children, but now new studies have found that iron deficiency causes anemia of up to 50%. Other reasons are inflammation, infection etc. Mostly mild and moderate anemia cases. Vitamin A deficiency levels have also decreased compared to earlier. Iodine levels are not only good but higher than normal levels in eight states.

Faced with new problems

There are new problems. Obesity in children is increasing. 10 percent of children are pre-diabetic. Lipid levels are increased. Dr HP S Sachdeva, who has done many research on nutrition in children and involved in various committees of the government, says that if we continue to insist on eating only, then these things will not balance the health of children. He said that over-nutrition also needs attention in the policy. He said that homemade food is not inferior in any way to medicinal food. According to Dr.Sachdevthe changes coming in children need attention.

Need to change these standards

The need to reduce vitamin A supplementation or change the standard is being done on the basis of new studies. In many states, iodine fortification needs to be reduced because iodine is found to be above the normal level. Anemia needs to be tested in other aspects rather than insisting only on iron deficiency.