Good diet helps combat deficiencies, say experts

Stating that introduction of complementary foods that are rich in micro-nutrients is essential for the overall growth and development of an infant, Dr Preethy Jacob, a paediatrician, said, “Deficiency of vitamins and micro-nutrients in a child can have a long-term impact on health.” 

Doctors say exclusive breastfeeding till six months ensures that a child’s nutritional demands are met. “After six months, babies need other foods to meet their nutritional requirements. Now, it is necessary that the complementary food fed to infants should be rich in micro-nutrients. 

Therefore, ragi, navadhanya mix and commercially available fortified cereal foods can be used,” said Dr Sreedhar, Consultant Paediatrician, Vertias Children’s Clinic Dr Linda, a child specialist, said, “Infants may fail to reach their full potential and may also become prone to infections due to nutritional deficiency from 6 - 24 months. Thus, a complementary feed with adequate vitamins, micro-nutrients and minerals is recommended.”