MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) on Saturday warned that the lack of essential nutrients—such as vitamin A—in diets threatens eyesight, weakens the immune system, and affects brain development.
In its latest report, the agency noted that 3 in every 100 Filipinos have vitamin A deficiency (VAD), a problem they called “hidden hunger.”
This, they claim, highlights the need for stronger nutrition education among Filipino families and improved access to vitamin and mineral supplementation for vulnerable groups—particularly pregnant women and children.
“When intake is too low, children become more vulnerable to infections and, in severe cases, may suffer from visual problems. Among pregnant women, adequate vitamin A is important for maternal and child health,” the DOST-FNRI said in a statement.
Get the latest news
delivered to your inbox
Sign up for The Manila Times newsletters
By signing up with an email address, I acknowledge that I have read and agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
