Effect of supervised nutrition in malnourished children in Western India

Acute malnutrition or ‘wasting’ (thin individuals for the height), characterized by rapid weight loss, in its severe form can lead to death. This study was conducted to assess the effect of supervised nutrition and supplements on moderately and severely malnourished children from western India. One hundred and three malnourished children in the age group 6 months to 6 years were included in this study. At child day care center, for 30 days, in addition to 2 standard meals, 3 extra energy dense, protein rich meals and food supplements were provided under supervision. Weight gain was recorded at the end of 8, 15, 22 and 30 days. After 30 days, parents were counseled about providing children nutritious diet and supplementation of energy dense food at home. Follow up for weight gain at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Statistically significant gain in body weights (t value and p value<0.0001) were noted post administration of nutritional and therapeutic supplements for 8, 15, 22, and 30 days. Mean weight significantly increased after 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. In malnourished children supervised nutritional and supplementation therapy improves the nutritional status.