Empowering maternal income among key strategies to combat malnutrition in marginalized communities

The National Nutrition Council Region VII is encouraging local nutrition committees to adopt strategies that boost maternal income, especially in marginalized communities, as an effective way to address and prevent malnutrition.

Recent studies reveals that a mother's income can affect her family's well-being, particularly in low socio-economic status areas. In economically disadvantaged regions, mothers often struggle to provide sufficient food and nutrients for their children, leading to malnutrition issues. 

Limited access to quality food and exposure to unsanitary environments further exacerbate health risks for children in these areas. Studies indicate that children from low-income families face an eleven-fold higher risk of health problems.

Research also suggests that children from households where mothers are employed and have independent incomes are less likely to experience severe acute malnutrition (SAM). Mothers with income tend to prioritize healthier food choices, reducing the risk of SAM. Additionally, having personal income empowers mothers to focus on improving household infrastructure and sanitation facilities.

Maternal income not only positively impacts food and nutrition security but also gives mothers more influence over household decisions, including food distribution. This aligns with the goals of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition 2023–2028, which recognizes the importance of maternal income as a nutrition-sensitive intervention. //MIND 7, with NNC RVII NO III Nasudi G. Soluta, RND