A Pilot Study to Evaluate the Role of Santarpan Manth in Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM)

Abstract

Background and objectives: - PEM is a type of malnutrition resulting from deficiency of proteins and calories in food over a long period of time. India  ranked 2^nd after Bangladesh in world in malnutrition of children. Hence there is a sustained need of developing a nutritious food supplement which could provide better nutrients to eliminate or improve the malnutrition related problems, within the reach of  majority even in rural area also. With  objective to evaluate the role of Santarpan Manth in Protein Energy Malnutrition. Design:  Open Randomized Prospective clinical study. Participants: - children of age group 2-5 yrs. Method: -30 patients were selected from OPD and IPD of Balroga, NIA, Jaipur. They were randomly divided in two groups.   Santarpan Manth-1  in Group A and   Santarpan Manth-II  in Group B (Placebo Group )  administered for three months of duration with follow up at every fifteen days. Outcome measures:- Anthropometry parameters i.e. Weight , Height, MAC, Skin fold thickness and chest circumference : Laboratory parameters i.e. Hb, and  TSP.  Results: - significant improvement in anthropometric parameters in group A,  and in laboratory parameters  significant improvement in haemoglobin level and TSP Level in group A. Conclusion: - the trial drug “Santarpan Manth†is effective in promoting  the growth and weight gain in children those suffering with PEM( Balshosha)