Health problems that can be caused by childhood malnutrition

Proper nutrition is essential for a child's life. Children's bodies need a high-quality diet because research shows that growth during childhood needs to be steady. During this period, children need an adequate supply of nutrients to maintain a healthy weight and body shape. They also need sufficient energy, protein, and other nutrients to maintain bodily functions. You've probably noticed that children perform differently. Some children excel in school, while others struggle. Similarly, some children are more active than others. A good diet has been found to influence a child's psychological, social, physical, and behavioral development.

Unfortunately, many children still lack proper nutrition, which affects their health. Newer generations of children often prefer foods high in fat, sugar, and salt.Vitamins and mineralsHowever, their intake has been affected. Furthermore, malnutrition has been found to reduce children's resistance to infectious diseases. Parents must realize that some diet-related chronic diseases faced by adults today are caused by childhood malnutrition. The primary task in raising healthy children is to guide them towards healthy eating habits through healthy foods. Below are some health problems children face due to malnutrition.

The effects of malnutrition on children

1. Weak bones and delayed development

Young children consume a very high percentage of nutrients, which is why they grow so rapidly in their early years. Children rely on sufficient nutrition to develop strong bones and teeth, and they also need nutrients such as essential fatty acids to enhance vision and brain development. For example, a deficiency in vitamin A can impair a child's growth, vision, and immunity. Zinc deficiency can lead to stunted growth and make children more susceptible to infectious diseases, while children lacking vitamin D in their diet are at greater risk of developmental delays and weak bone formation. Therefore, if a child's diet does not contain adequate amounts of essential nutrients, their growth and development will be poor.

2. Tooth decay

Untreated cavities can cause serious problems for children, leading to difficulty eating, speaking, and responding to learning. Many children today have unhealthy snacking habits, preferring starchy snacks that contribute to cavities. Furthermore, these processed foods contain high levels of sugar and sweeteners, which affect teeth. Some of these snacks include wafers, chocolate, and high-fat, high-sugar candies. Studies also show that excessive consumption of soft drinks, sports drinks, and fruit juices erode teeth because these beverages contain acidic components. Therefore, frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks weakens teeth and makes them more susceptible to cavities. Parents are advised to provide appropriate dental care for their children. First, limit their intake of sugary and fatty snacks; second, parents should purchase high-quality toothpaste and teach their children to brush their teeth thoroughly.

3. Obesity

Childhood obesity has been steadily increasing, especially in the last 20 years. Obesity occurs when children consume excessive amounts of malnourished food over a long period. It is a serious condition that can affect blood sugar and blood pressure levels, and most obese children also struggle with breathing problems. If you have an obese child, your child needs appropriate attention and dietary changes. It is recommended that you work with a pediatrician to ensure your child receives the best possible medical care.

4. Impaired learning ability

Eating junk food is detrimental to children's brain development. Junk food contains artificial colors and flavors, preservatives, sugar, and harmful fats. Therefore, it lacks essential nutrients needed for brain development. A young child's brain develops at a much faster rate, starting in pregnancy, which is why full breastfeeding is always recommended for infants.

Children also need essential nutrients, such asomega-3 fatty acids和鐵This promotes brain development. The human brain is mainly composed of fat.omega-3 fatty acidsIron is a type of fat that is beneficial for brain development. Iron is essential in children's diets. Unfortunately, iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in the world. Children with iron deficiency often experience behavioral and learning problems at school. Therefore, children lacking these nutrients often experience attention deficit, reading difficulties, and writing difficulties.

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