(A Charitable Trust)
Nutrition is the science that interprets the interaction of nutrients and other substances in food, in relation to maintenance, growth, reproduction, health and disease of a person. Nutritional status is influenced by three broad factors: food, health and care. Optimal nutritional status results when children have access to affordable, diverse, nutrient-rich food; appropriate maternal and child-care practices; adequate health services; and a healthy environment including safe water, sanitation and good hygiene practices. These factors directly influence nutrient intake and the presence of disease.From a life-cycle perspective, the most crucial timeto meet a child’s nutritional requirements isin the 1,000 days including the period of pregnancy and ending with the child’s second birthday.
The programme builds on life cycle approach to prevent, reduce and promote curative care of malnourished children through community participation. It focuses on children below six years (particularly children aged less than 3 year), adolescent girls and pregnant women and lactating mothers.