TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) - - The National Nutrition Council (NNC) Region 2 has urged parents to invest in their babies’ first 1000 days to ensure the growth and development of their children.

The first 1000 days refers to a child’s life from conception up to 2 years old, the period when the brain, body, and immune system grow and develop significantly.

Ma. Gisela Lonzaga, nutrition program coordinator, said that this year’s Nutrition Month celebration is focused on the fight against malnutrition, and investment on the first 1000 days of a child to let the parents, especially the mother, give attention on the significant and influential phase a child's development.

She also said that giving significant care and focus during this crucial stage of a child's growth does not only ensure physical growth, but also the mental development of a child, which offers health and intelligence. Moreover, it is also proven to reduce stunting problems.

“One of our objectives is to increase understanding of the first 1000 days of life strategy and to scale up interventions of various sectors to fight malnutrition,” she said.

To attain this, she said that a pregnant mother should eat the right kinds and the right amount of food. In addition, the family members should be resourceful in feeding a child.

Lonzaga also urged local officials to ensure the prioritization of nutrition programs of their constituents and invest on their communities’ health and nutrition, which will eventually result to a productive citizenry.

“By working together, we can end all forms of malnutrition. Let us scale up critical actions in the first 1000 days life,” she said.

Government agencies were also encouraged to implement programs and projects that will help solve malnutrition problems in the region. (JKC/OTB/PIA-Cagayan)