The Micronutrients: Vitamin A, Iron and Zinc

MICRONUTRIENTS

“Called micronutrients because they are needed only in miniscule amounts; these substances are the “magic wands” that enable the body to produce enzymes, hormones, and other substances essential for proper growth and development. As tiny as the amounts are, however, the consequences of their absence are severe” (WHO 2006)

Vitamin A, iron and zinc are micronutrients

What is Vitamin A?
It is an essential nutrient needed by the body for normal sight, growth, reproduction, cell differentiation and immune competence

What are the Consequences of Vitamin A Deficiency Disorders?
23% higher child mortality
More severe infections
Major cause of preventable childhood blindness
Weaker immunity
Poorer growth

What are the Community Consequences of Vitamin A Deficiency Disorders?
More child deaths
More children in hospitals
Higher health care cost
Life-long burden of caring for the blind
More underweight children

How will you know that your Community has Vitamin A Deficiency Disorders?
High Rates of Child Malnutrition, Persistent Diarrhea, Respiratory Infections, Measles
Low Rates of Breatsfeeding
Low intake of Vitamin A - rich foods
Under Five Mortality Rate - (U5 MR > 50 per 1,000 live birth)

What can the Governor/Mayor and Sanggunian do?
Extend your political leadership to the Garantisadong Pambata (GP) Campaign
Ensure enough supply of Vitamin A Capsules at the health center for children with measles, severe pnuemonia, persistent diarrhea and underweight and post partum women

What is Iron?
Essential trace mineral needed for hemoglobin formation
Stored in the liver, bone marrow and spleen
Better absorbed with Vitamin C

What are the Consequences of Iron Deficiency?
Adults:
Fatigue, low work productivity, apathy

Infants:
Low birth weight, increased illness

Children:
Poor attention span, reduced memory
Lower scores on achievement tests
Poor cognitive development

Mothers
Increased illness and maternal deaths



What can the Governor/ Mayor and Sanggunian Do?
Ensure supply of iron supplements for pregnant women, lactating women, infants and children in the health center
Promote exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months
Promote use of appropriate complementary foods
Ensure supply of deworming drugs in the health center

New Developments
Zinc supplementation decreases the episodes, reduces the duration and severity of diarrhea

Why use Reformulated Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)?
Reformulated or improved ORS - has reduced glucose and salt (NaCl) concentrations

Shortens diarrhea episodes
Reduces the severity of diarrhea
Minimizes fluid and electrolyte losses
Prevents malnutrition
Prevents complications