What is the current state of maternal undernutrition in India?

According to the article, about 18.7% of women in India are underweight, and 57% of women in the reproductive age are suffering from anaemia.

What advice does Dr. Ambrish Mithal, the chairman of Endocrinology at Max Healthcare, give to pregnant women in India?

Dr. Mithal recommends that pregnant women aim for a varied diet that includes green leafy vegetables, protein sources, fruits, and whole grains or millets. He also advises them to register early for antenatal care, take iron-folic acid and calcium supplements as advised, and get dewormed when indicated.

Home / Health / Vitamin Deficiencies Pose Hidden Hunger Risk for Pregnant Women in India

Vitamin Deficiencies Pose Hidden Hunger Risk for Pregnant Women in India

Q: How does poor maternal nutrition affect the child?

The article states that poor maternal nutrition before and during pregnancy can affect fetal growth, leading to long-term developmental and metabolic risks for the child, including an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease later in life.

17 Nov

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Summary

18.7% of women in India are underweight
57% of women in reproductive age suffer from anaemia
Poor maternal nutrition affects fetal growth, leading to long-term health risks

Vitamin Deficiencies Pose Hidden Hunger Risk for Pregnant Women in India

As of November 17th, 2025, maternal undernutrition remains a significant public health issue in India. Approximately 18.7% of women in the country are underweight, and 57% of women of reproductive age suffer from anaemia.

This poor maternal nutrition, both before and during pregnancy, has far-reaching consequences. It affects fetal growth, leading to long-term developmental and metabolic risks for the child. Not only does this harm the mother's health, increasing risks during pregnancy and childbirth, but it also perpetuates an intergenerational cycle of malnutrition and stunting.

According to Dr. Ambrish Mithal, chairman of Endocrinology at Max Healthcare, this is a "hidden hunger" where women may be consuming enough calories but lack essential vitamins and minerals. This "hidden hunger" can blunt a child's cognitive and physical potential, as poor fetal nutrition raises the risk of diabetes and heart disease later in life.