ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: To study the impact of sorghum diet on growth, and micronutrient status of school going children for a period of 8 mo. METHODS: Children (n = 160 boys and n = 160 girls) aged between 9 to 12 y were randomly allocated into two groups (n = 80 in the control and n = 80 in the experimental group) to receive 60% sorghum diet and 40% of rice diet (Exp G) and regular rice diet (100%; CG). Anthropometric indices and biochemical parameters were measured at baseline and at 8 mo using standardized methods. RESULTS: The growth rate was significantly higher (p < 0.01) in the Exp G of girls, whereas in boys it was in the CG. Hemoglobin (Hb), serum ferritin, albumin, retinol binding protein (RBP) and iron levels were significantly improved (p < 0.05) in the Exp G of both the genders and in boys, serum folic acid and calcium levels were also improved with sorghum diet. CONCLUSIONS: Serum micronutrient status, in terms of hemoglobin, serum folic acid, albumin, RBP, ferritin, calcium and iron can be improved with sorghum supplementation in school going children.
