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The Role of Nutrition and Women's Empowerment in Human Capital Development

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  • Houston, Jack E.
  • Huguley, Helena

Abstract

Nutritional status and the empowerment of women have massive implications on the physical and mental development of their children. We explore the role of nutrition of women and children in the household and further posit the importance of the mother’s human capital. Increases in women’s human capital positively affect the efficiency of management and the allocation of other inputs for household production, especially for staples, vegetables and poultry. A model for human capital is postulated in which the primary input variables are the education of men, the education of women, health, training and a mother’s human capital. Due to the amplifying and intergenerational benefits of women’s human capital, we find that investments in women’s capital have greater positive benefits and implications for long-term food security and economic development than traditional academic models credit.

Suggested Citation

  • Houston, Jack E. & Huguley, Helena, 2014. "The Role of Nutrition and Women's Empowerment in Human Capital Development," Journal of Food Distribution Research, Food Distribution Research Society, vol. 45(1), pages 1-6, March.
  • Handle: RePEc:ags:jlofdr:164550
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.164550
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Naila Kabeer, 1999. "Resources, Agency, Achievements: Reflections on the Measurement of Women's Empowerment," Development and Change, International Institute of Social Studies, vol. 30(3), pages 435-464, July.
    4. Doss, Cheryl, 2013. "Intrahousehold bargaining and resource allocation in developing countries," Policy Research Working Paper Series 6337, The World Bank.
    5. Cheryl Doss, 2013. "Intrahousehold Bargaining and Resource Allocation in Developing Countries-super-1," The World Bank Research Observer, World Bank, vol. 28(1), pages 52-78, February.
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