Core messages for conducting nutrition demonstrations

Link to MS Word can be found here

Tip: Use song and dance during demonstrations to relay the message in a fun and engaging way

1. Eating diverse foods, especially plenty of fruits and vegetables is important for a strong and healthy immune system. It helps to protect the body from infection and disease such as diarrhea.

2. The three food groups needed for a healthy meal are:

o Carbohydrates (Rice, flour, Breadfruit, bwabwai)

o Protein (Reef fish, crab, Lobster, etc.)

o Vitamins & Minerals (Green leafy, pandanis fruit, pumpkin)

1. Children need to be fed often throughout the day not just at mealtimes. Give children high nutrient snacks such as boiled eggs and papaya. Avoid giving children sugary drinks such as toddy.

2. Starting at about 6 months of age, feed children freshly prepared energy and nutrient rich complementary foods, while continuing to breastfeed up to two years or longer. Introducing complementary foods to children before 6 months puts them at risk for diarrhea.

3. Malnutrition, anemia, iron and vitamin A deficiencies make children unwell and tired which may result in poor growth and lower ability to learn.

4. Breastfeeding is best for young children. Colostrum provides the first dose of antibodies (immune molecules) that protect the child from illness. Young children are at risk of diarrhea if you give them traditional medicines because water may not be clean.

5. Babies who are breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months, without any formula, have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses, and bouts of diarrhea.

1. Clean hands and cooking utensils before cooking. Germs that cause diarrhea and other illnesses are on the hands even if they don’t appear to be dirty.

2. Wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap under running water (demonstrate hand-washing techniques)

3. Use separate chopping boards to prepare uncooked meat and fish.

4. Keep perishable items refrigerated or frozen, and pay attention to product expiry dates.

5. Aim to recycle or dispose of food waste and packaging in an appropriate and sanitary manner, avoiding build-up of refuse which could attract pests

6. Both rain and well water should be boiled before drinking. Wells are contaminated with faeces and debris and rainwater can become contaminated during water collection.

1. Most women produce enough breast milk to satisfy their children’s needs. Demonstrate proper breastfeeding technique as required.

2. Pregnant women are at high risk of anaemia due to not enough iron in their diet. Eating iron rich foods such as fish and taking iron folic acid supplements will help to prevent anemia.

3. Recognize psychological and emotional needs that might hinder breastfeeding