Gonda: The Department of Home Science at Saraswati Devi Nari Gyansthali PG College, Gonda, organised a guest lecture on “Nutrition and Balanced Diet” on September 19 as part of Poshan Pakhwada.
The programme featured Dr Rama Maurya, Assistant Professor at Maa Pateshwari University, Balrampur, as the chief guest and keynote speaker. Head of the Home Science Department Ranjana Bandhu, along with Sunita Mishra and Sushma Singh, welcomed Dr Maurya with a bouquet.
Addressing the students, Dr Maurya explained the meaning and importance of a balanced diet and stressed that nutritious food does not necessarily have to be expensive. She said cereals, pulses, green leafy vegetables, seasonal fruits and other nutritious foods are readily available in household kitchens and surrounding areas. A balanced and nutritious meal can be prepared economically by consuming these foods in appropriate quantities and proportions.
She explained the role of iron, calcium, protein, vitamins and other minerals in maintaining good health. Dr Maurya noted that iron deficiency can lead to anaemia, weakness and fatigue, while calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth. She encouraged students to include green leafy vegetables, pulses, jaggery, gram, sesame, milk, curd and seasonal fruits in their daily diet.
Dr Maurya also emphasised the importance of women’s nutrition, saying healthy and well-nourished women form the foundation of healthy families and a strong society. She advised students to eat meals at regular intervals and avoid excessive consumption of junk food, fried items and packaged foods.
At the conclusion, Principal Dr Aarti Srivastava thanked Dr Maurya for her informative and useful lecture. The chief guest was subsequently honoured with a plant.
College administrator Dr Anandita Rajat, faculty members and staff were also present. Students participated enthusiastically and gained practical information about balanced diets, nutrition and healthy lifestyle practices.
