Malnourished children experience developmental delays, weight-loss
and illness as a result of inadequate intake of protein, calories and
other nutrients. Because orphaned and institutionalized children may
experience one or several macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies,
they are at risk for a variety of short-term and long-term complications.
Short-Term Implications
Because so much development occurs in the first few years of life,
nutrient deficiencies can have major short-term implications in young
children.
Immune Implications
Malnourishment can greatly compromise a child’s immune system, making
them more susceptible to infectious diseases. Particularly in
institutions where there are poor sanitary practices, children are
vulnerable to infections from other children or caregivers. In
particular, zinc, iron and vitamin A are commonly associated with
weakened immune function.
Growth Implications
Nutrient deficiencies and gastrointestinal infections commonly
co-occur in orphans. A child may contract an infection due in part to
poor nutritional status. In turn, a gastrointestinal infection places
the child at even greater risk for nutrient deficiencies because
nutrients are unable to be absorbed properly. Consequently, nutrient
deficiency combined with infection can cause growth retardation.
Additionally, a deficiency in one nutrient may lead to a deficiency
in another nutrient. For example, deficiencies in iron, magnesium and
zinc can cause anorexia and thereby result in reduced intake of other
important nutrients such as protein. Low lipid intake can also affect
the absorption of important fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A and
D. Zinc and protein deficiencies can retard bone growth and development,
putting a child at risk for long-term complications.
Long-Term Implications
The short-term implications of malnutrition eventually give way to
long-term complications, such as growth and cognitive delays.
Growth Implications
Malnutrition not only impacts growth in the short term, but can also
limit total bone growth. Additionally, children classified as low
height-for-age (stunted) may never be able to regain lost growth
potential if they continue to live in a nutritionally deprived
situation.
Cognitive Implications
Malnutrition negatively effects brain development causing delays in motor and cognitive development, such as:
- Attention deficit disorder
- Impaired school performance
- Decreased IQ scores
- Memory deficiency
- Learning disabilities
- Reduced social skills
- Reduced language development
- Reduced problem-solving abilities
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