Nutrition and Dietetics Department Drums Up Awareness on Baby's First 1,000 Days

The Nutrition and Dietetics Department (ND) has rolled out a series of activities in celebration of Nutrition Month, themed: “First 1,000 days ni baby pahalagahan para sa malusog na kinabukasan.”

It started off with its “Nutrition Caravan” that kicked off July 7. The Caravan gives free lectures on infant nutrition management to health workers and mothers from a total of 25 barangays in Dumaguete. They are conducted on separate dates throughout the month of July and at different public elementary schools: West City Elemetary School, Cantil-e Elementary School and Calindagan Elementary School

On July 18, ND spearheads a quiz bowl on campus, pulling together mothers from around Dumaguete City in a test of practical knowledge of nutrition-related techniques and issues around the theme.  Another event involving the youth is scheduled on July 20. In partnership with the Dumaguete City Nutrition Council, ND sponsors an oratorical contest among 15 high school students.

Culminating the celebration is a Nutrition Clinic at the Quezon Park. This makes available free diet consultations to the public.  

This year’s Nutrition Month theme recognizes the importance of an individual’s first 1,000 days in his or her overall health. It also aims to create awareness on proper infant and young child feeding practices, particularly exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and giving appropriate complementary food after six months while continuing breastfeeding.