Thomas Tan
Micronutrient deficiency is a global health concern that affects more than two billion people with half of them being children under five years of age.
According to Nutrition Society of Malaysia up to two-thirds of Malaysian adults are vitamin D deficient while close to one-third of Malaysian children below the age of 12 do not achieve the recommended vitamin D and calcium intakes.
This ‘hidden hunger’ which often goes unnoticed, can be detrimental to health and cause poor cognitive and physical development, stunted growth as well as a weakened immune system.
It’s long term impact on health has the potential to curtail socio-economic development, particularly among low-income communities that often have less access to nutritious food.
The Nutrition Society of Malaysia aims to raise awareness on the threat posed by micronutrient deficiencies and promote healthier dietary habits to support good health among Malaysian families.
According to Dr Amutha Ramadas, Nutrition Society of Malaysia council member and senior lecturer at Monash University Malaysia, micronutrient deficiencies are a significant threat to developing a healthier Malaysia.
“While micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals are only needed in small quantities, they are essential building blocks vital to growth, development and wellbeing.
“Many Malaysians are unaware that they lack these important micronutrients. Thus, nutrition education represents an important step toward closing these nutritional gaps.
“With the right knowledge in hand, Malaysians will be able to choose a healthy and balanced diet that is nutritionally complete,” Dr Amutha said.
Dr Amutha said it is essential to consume a variety of foods as per the Malaysian Food Pyramid. A balanced diet that contains wholegrains, fruits, vegetables and dairy can help achive our micronutrient needs.
Milk is an important part of a balanced diet, as it contains vitamins D and B12, calcium, zinc and magnesium with some types of milk fortified with Iron and Vitamin C.
“However, several studies have indicated that Malaysians do not consume enough milk and milk products. The Malaysian Dietary Guidelines recommend daily consumption of two servings of milk and milk products for adults, and up to three servings for children,” said Dr Amutha.
The micronutrients contained in milk provide health benefits that are important for building strong bones and teeth, regulate muscle and nerve function and other biochemical reactions in our body. Milk is also essential in supporting growth, healing and our immune systems.
“Together with a healthy and balanced diet, daily consumption of milk can certainly help families meet their daily micronutrient needs,” Dr Amutha added.
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