IMPORTANCE OF MINIMUM DIETARY DIVERSITY

 Minimum Dietary Diversity for Children: Why It Matters

For children aged 6 to 23 months, proper nutrition supports growth and brain development. One key measure is Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) — met when a child eats from at least 5 out of 8 food groups in a day.

🍼 The 8 food groups are:

  1. Breast milk

  2. Grains, roots, and tubers

  3. Legumes and nuts

  4. Dairy products (milk, curd, cheese)

  5. Eggs

  6. Flesh foods (meat, fish, poultry)

  7. Vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables

  8. Other fruits and vegetables – e.g., banana, apple, guava, cabbage, beans, okra. These add fibre and minerals, even if not rich in vitamin A.

👉 Why it matters: A diverse diet improves immunity, prevents malnutrition, and supports healthy development. Even small additions like fruit or an egg can make a big difference!


                                                                                                                               -DR VIGNESH N 

                                                                                                                                 PAEDIATRICIAN

                                                                                                                                 THE NILGIRIS.

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