Article: A CONCEPTUAL STUDY ON BALA POSHANA

Article Category: Review articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.130120

Pages: 86-91

Author: Naseeba C *, Jithesh Chowta

Abstract: The term ‘Poshana’ means nutrition. It is defined as providing or obtaining the food necessary for health and growth. According to Acharya Kashyapa, though one may be taking medicine, one can’t exist without food. It means the modification of dietic pattern itself cures many disorders. Also, Acharya Kashyapa devotes an entire chapter for Bhojya Vidhi Vikalpa.  Growth is the global indicator of children’s wellbeing; for this, sufficient intake of Ahara is essential. For adequate and appropriate growth, nutrition is the most critical factor. While good nutrition is vital throughout childhood, it is crucial during the first five years of a child’s life, particularly in the first 2-3 years when rapid growth occurs and when the child is entirely dependent on the mother and the family for food. According to WHO and UNICEF estimates, 60% of child deaths are due to malnutrition only. Also, 1 in 3 of the world’s malnourished children lives in India. Thus, children and adolescents should consume a balanced diet to ensure proper growth and development and stay healthy and disease-free.

Keyword: Bala poshana, Stanya, Annaprashana, Nutrition, Breast milk, Complementary feeds.