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‘Prioritise children’s diet to prevent malnutrition’
Dr Ankrah
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Arise Foods Limited, Dr. Nana AchiaaAnkrah,has identified the poor dieting among children as a contributory factor that affect the development of children and leads to nutritional deficiencies.
According to the pharmacist, it is essential to provide children with appropriate nutrition at the right times and in proper proportions to foster their complete growth and well-being.
In her opinion, the food a child consumes could serve as either the safest and essential medicine or could even be poison.
Speaking to The Spectator, Dr. Ankrah emphasised the importance of closely monitoring the nutritional benefits in a child’s diet, as it holds the potential to curb malnutrition.
She mentioned iron, calcium, zinc, and protein as key nutritional values to consider when preparing a child’s meal.
Highlighting iron as an essential nutritional benefit, the pharmacist said iron aids in the production of haemoglobin (blood), which supports brain function.
She said iron helps maintain a healthy immune system, increases energy production, and reduces fatigue.
Dr. Ankrah explained that calcium plays a crucial role in building strong bones and teeth, contributing to proper muscle function.
Calcium, she said, aids in blood clotting, hormone secretion, and various enzyme activities within the human system.
The pharmacist mentioned that, zinc plays a role in promoting general immune health and facilitating wound healing, while also contributing to the maintenance of healthy skin.
“Most importantly, zinc aids in metabolism and contributes to normal growth and development of children,” Dr. Ankrah expressed.
Describing protein as a nutritional benefit, Dr. Ankrah said it helps in the growth and repair of body tissues, healthy muscles, skin, hair, and nails.
She said protein supports the production of enzymes, hormones, and antibodies that help maintain a healthy immune system.
By Alfred Ankrah