Dietary Diversification
The diversification of the diet to increase the consumption of iron, vitamin A and other micronutrients on a daily or continuing basis is a practical, long-term measure to eliminate and prevent micronutrient deficiencies. Activities that improve production, availability and access to micronutrient-rich and locally produced foods are a major focus of this type of intervention. Equally important is the use of communication and education activities to motivate changes in behavior that increase consumption of beneficial foods, increase food production and improve feeding practice in infants and children. Many dietary diversification activities operate at the community level where they are more likely to be sustainable and cause enduring behavior change in micronutrient consumption.
USAID's Response
USAID programs provide education about micronutrient-rich foods and promotion of a diverse diet that includes these foods. Practical examples of USAID-sponsored community-based programs have been carried out in Indonesia, Bangladesh, Mali and the Philippines. Programs such as these have demonstrated a positive impact on vitamin A status and increased regular consumption of micronutrient-rich foods. In Latin America, other programs have established school gardens and feeding approaches maintained by students and their families.
Other Interventions
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