NATIONAL NEWS - Children across the globe have a common enemy. They may not know what malnutrition is, but many experience the hardship it brings. 

In fact, worldwide malnutrition is a leading cause of death of children, according to the World Health Organisation. South African families know the reality of malnourishment. 

Data by UNICEF shows that chronic malnutrition is an underlying cause for half the childhood deaths in South Africa, and local research shows similar sombre results. 

The Western Cape Stunting Baseline Survey of 2023 revealed that children younger than five carry a double burden of malnutrition: Children who are deprived of the right nutrients become stunted in their growth and development, while those who consume too many nutrients, become obese.

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has tools to help parents ward off malnutrition, and as we enter National Nutrition Week (9 – 15 October) call on parents to stand in the gap for children by taking specific actions:

1: Visit your local clinic regularly. There are specific times when it is crucial that you go to the clinic, including:

• When you think you may be pregnant;
• At least once a month for all children younger than 2 years, thereafter at least every three months;
• When have concerns about your baby’s health;
• When you have an appointment; and
• When you recognise the danger signs listed in your baby’s Road to Health booklet.

When your pregnancy is confirmed, healthcare workers check if you and your baby are in good health and provide you with further support. 

After your baby’s birth, routine visits are used to monitor your baby’s health, growth and development. 

Your baby also receives free immunisation and supplements to boost their health, and staff share valuable information with you.

Visiting the clinic gives you the opportunity to ask questions, and get help if there are challenges, for example, if you are feeling very down in general or after your baby’s birth, or if you have difficulty with breastfeeding.

Nadene Polayya (dietitian and lactation consultant) and Tanya Pretorius (occupational therapist) run a prenatal workshop for the people living in the Knysna and Bitou sub-district. 

“Creating a healthy baby starts with the mother choosing to eat nutritious foods during pregnancy. This workshop is hosted monthly for expectant mothers and their partners. We have a volunteer doula who shares valuable information on labour and delivery, and an occupational therapist who discusses the importance of setting up a support structure to aid raising a healthy baby”, said Nadene.

2: Give your baby only breastmilk during the first 6 months and continue with breastfeeding till at least the 2-year mark.

Breastmilk is the perfect nutrition for babies, adapting to your baby’s needs. No water, milk preparation, or sterilisation is needed. Best of all? It is free! The first milk (colostrum) provides baby with lots of antibodies that protect baby against illnesses.

Breastmilk is the only food your baby needs for the first 6 months. Talk to your healthcare worker when you’d like to start introducing solid foods to your baby when baby is six months or older.

“Breastmilk is the golden standard of infant nutrition,” says Worcester Hospital’s dietician, Ms Marelize Matthee. “Breastmilk is uniquely designed to meet every need for growth, immunity, and development.”

Unfortunately, healthcare professionals often see babies needing special medical care due to under nutrition. This can happen when, for example, the cost of formula milk is too much of a burden for the family, and the formula milk is not given according to the details on the tin.

3: Follow the advice of your healthcare worker. The department has a special programme to support pregnant mommies who are underweight, or babies who have a low birth weight. 

As part of our Nutrition Therapeutic Programme (NTP) healthcare workers identify moms who are malnourished and support them through the NTP to ensure that your baby grows well and is not born with a low weight or prematurely. Babies born prematurely or with a low birth weight are at risk of not thriving.

The department and its partners are committed to support moms and babies for a brighter future. Will you stand in the gap with us to ensure healthier futures for the most vulnerable?

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