2024, VOL. 10 ISSUE 3, PART D
Abstract:This study evaluated the effect of a locally developed nutrient-rich recipe on the nutritional status of 300 children under five years in Angul and Banarpal blocks, Odisha. The intervention led to significant improvements in weight-for-age and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), with increases of 5-8% observed in the experimental group. No change was noted in height-for-age. Nutrient analysis revealed that the recipe met substantial portions of daily nutrient requirements, including 53.33% of protein and 83.33% of vitamin A RDA. Statistical analyses demonstrated significant improvements in weight-for-age Z-scores and MUAC (p<0.001), while haemoglobin levels increased by 0.7 g/dL in the experimental group. Regression analysis identified income and age as significant predictors of nutritional improvement, highlighting the impact of socio-demographic factors. These results underscore the effectiveness of the nutrient-rich recipe in enhancing specific nutritional outcomes and emphasize the need for tailored nutritional strategies.