Nutrition in Children

Nutrition in children refers to the intake, absorption, and utilization of essential nutrients necessary for growth, development, and overall health. Proper nutrition supports physical growth, cognitive development, immune function, and prevention of deficiencies or obesity.

Definition

Epidemiology

Malnutrition affects an estimated 45 million children under 5 years globally
Undernutrition more prevalent in low- and middle-income countries
Micronutrient deficiencies (iron, vitamin A, iodine, zinc) are widespread
Overnutrition and childhood obesity are rising in high-income and urbanizing regions
Exclusive breastfeeding rates vary worldwide, influencing early childhood nutrition

Etiology

Inadequate caloric intake due to poverty, food insecurity, or illness
Micronutrient deficiencies from poor dietary diversity
Excessive intake of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods causing obesity
Feeding difficulties in infancy (prematurity, congenital anomalies, chronic illness)
Malabsorption disorders (celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, chronic diarrhea)
Socio-cultural practices affecting feeding and diet diversity

Pathophysiology

Insufficient intake or absorption of macronutrients leads to impaired growth (stunting, wasting)
Micronutrient deficiencies affect enzymatic reactions, immunity, and organ development
Excess caloric intake without balanced nutrients leads to adiposity and metabolic syndrome
Chronic malnutrition affects neurocognitive development
Nutrient imbalances can impair bone growth, hematopoiesis, and immune response
Early-life nutrition programs long-term metabolic health (developmental origins of health and disease theory)