To curb malnutrition, govt banks on desi ‘superfoods’

NEW DELHI : The ministry of ayurveda, yoga and naturopathy, unani, siddha and homoeopathy (Ayush) plans to lower malnutrition by promoting the use of traditional plant-based superfoods such as ashwagandha (Indian ginseng) and moringa (drumstick) that are high in micronutrients or have medicinal properties that improve absorption of nutrients.

The initiative is a part of the National Nutrition Mission (NNM) that received Cabinet approval last year. The NNM, as the apex body, will monitor, supervise, fix targets and guide the nutrition-related interventions. “The Ayush ministry is on board to create region-specific meal plans using locally available ingredients and medical plants to improve nutrient absorption, boost immunity and rejuvenate the body and mind,” says Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, secretary, Ayush ministry.

Among the plants and herbs that make it to the superfoods list are amla (Indian gooseberry), sonth (dry ginger powder), kachchi haldi (fresh turmeric) and giloy (heart-leaved moonseed), apart from and ashwagandha and moringa. Experts find it a workable plan to meet local nutritional requirements. “It is best to pick up basic local food and encourage people to consume it for it won’t only meet the nutritional requirements, but also suit the local palate and reduce the cost drastically. Taking food supplements or packaged food items from outside the state isn’t a good idea in the long run,” says Ritika Samaddar, regional head- dietetics, Max Healthcare.