Punjab’s first advisory on diet advice for pregnant women released

In a landmark initiative to promote maternal and child health, Health Minister Balbir Singh unveiled the first health advisory on dietary advice for pregnant and lactating mothers at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) here recently.

The initiative, conceptualised by Dr Ashima Taneja, head of the department of obstetrics and gynaecology, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), Ludhiana, is the outcome of a collaborative partnership between Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) and the DMCH.

Speaking at the event, Dr Taneja highlighted the importance of consuming a healthy and balanced diet during pregnancy. She stressed the advisory’s focus on eating locally available and traditional foods while also dispelling prevalent myths about nutrition practices in the state.

The initiative forms a vital component of the state government’s broader vision – ‘Swasth Punjab – Surakshit Punjab’. A dedicated team of experts from these institutions has united with the shared mission of supporting healthy pregnancies, healthy babies and reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality rates.

The concise yet comprehensive advisory serves as an easy-to-understand guide for women and families, outlining essential dietary recommendations before, during and after pregnancy. It meticulously details what to eat and what to avoid, ensuring that every expectant and new mother has access to accurate, practical and culturally relevant nutritional information.