Nutrition, Physical Work Capacity and Work Output

Abstract

It is generally believed that productivity among workers developing countries is low. This has been attributed at least in part to their poor physique as a consequence of chronic malnutrition. Evidence based upon epidemiological data collected during wars and other conditions of deprivation have indicated that inadequacy of food intake results in reduced work efficiency and productivity (Anon., 1962). However, there is scant evidence for a relationship between nutrition and work output under ordinary working situations. From the practical point of view, the possible adverse effect of small body size among large segments of the Indian population — brought about by chronic undernutrition — on work output, may be important in the context of national productivity. Studies undertaken to examine this relationship are presented here.