AN INTEGRATED APPROACH ON CHILD NUTRITION

Nutrition is one of the most important and highly discussed topics in medical community. It determines the quality of health in young citizens as well as the future of the nation. Infant and child nutrition, especially in the first few years of life is crucial; lest ends up in malnutrition. Policies on nutrition and health education of mothers on infant and young child feeding as well as efforts to trigger appropriate behavioural changes among mothers are being considered as direct interventions for reducing malnutrition in children.India evidences major concern regarding child malnutrition despite enormous efforts. Proper knowledge of nutrition, blended with traditional and scientific comprehension will enhance better adaptation and community participation, hence will aid in improving nutritional status. Ayurveda emphasizes good nutrition at every stage of life, season, as well as daily routine, in order to preserve health of mother and offspring. Nutritional aspects of Ayurveda, care of pregnant lady, infant nutrition, breast feeding, complementary foods and proper weaning; with due applied aspects; and current guidelines are the highlights of this write up.Keywords: Ayurveda, nutrition, Ahara, fetal nutrition, infant nutrition, Shishu Prashana, Ayushman Kumara Lakshana