Intrafamilial distribution of nutrients in a deep forest?dwelling tribe of Gujarat, India

Abstract

The intrafamilial distribution of food was studied in 78 male heads of families of the Rathwakoli tribe and their family members in Chhotaudepur. Gujarat. The “head” (moderate worker) was found to be in positive nutrient intake status except for retinol and ascorbic acid, receiving the lion's share of the family diet. Other family members—toddlers (1–3 years), preschoolers (4–6 years), school children (7–12 years), adolescents (13–18 years), pregnant and lactating women or the aged (above 55 years)—received proportionately less. The most severe and alarming nutrient deficit for the family as a unit was retinol.