Malnutrition in Children: Causes and Solutions
Child malnutrition is a severe issue in most of the global regions. It occurs when a child fails to receive the appropriate proportions of nutrients required to promote healthy growth and development. These nutrients comprise energy giving foods, minerals, vitamins, and proteins. In my opinion, all children have the right to good food and a healthy life, but unfortunately, many children are deprived of what they require.
Malnutrition is of various kinds. There are also children who fail to get sufficient food altogether resulting in under-nutrition. This may make them extremely thin, weak and small compared to their age. Other people can consume food, but the food does not contain valuable nutrients. It is what is referred to as hidden hunger. It also has overnutrition where children consume too much of the unhealthy food resulting in obesity. Nevertheless, undernutrition in most of the developing nations is the most prevalent form and the most hazardous.
Poverty is one of the key causes of malnutrition among children. Lack of money, whereby, families lack adequate money, makes them unable to afford good and balanced meals. They can rely on the inexpensive foods that fill the stomach without sufficient nutrients. I have witnessed cases where families find it difficult to have a meal at least once a day and this has tremendous impacts on the health of children. Access to healthcare and education is also restricted due to poverty, and this compounded the issue.
The other reason is ignorance on proper nutrition. Other parents are unaware of the significance of providing a balanced diet to children. They might be ignorant of the kind of food they require to grow. An example is a child must be fed foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein, yet some families may only feed children one type of food. I believe education is highly essential since when parents are informed then they are able to make better decisions on behalf of their children.
Malnutrition also comes as a result of poor sanitation and inadequate water supply. Children who grow up in unsanitary conditions are prone to infections and other diseases such as diarrhea. Such diseases may be a cause of inability of the body to absorb nutrients. Malnutrition may occur even when a child eats well, but he or she is ill. I believe that hygiene and clean water are as important as food.
Moreover, malnutrition can be enhanced by conflicts and natural calamities. Farms and food supplies can be ruined by wars and food production can be diminished by floods or droughts. Children are usually the worst hit when food is in short supply. In my opinion, governments and organizations should be of immediate assistance in these cases to save lives.
Malnutrition has very severe consequences on children. It may cause stunted development, low immunity and inadequate development of the brain. Children who are malnourished may struggle to study at school and may be unable to achieve their potential. Severe cases may even result in death. I consider this, and I understand how crucial it is to act fast.
This problem has numerous solutions. Among the key solutions, there is better access to healthy and affordable food. Governments have the ability to assist farmers and lower prices of healthy foods. School feeding programs are also possible since they give children at least one good meal per day. I suppose this can be a huge difference particularly in children of poor families.
Nutrition education is another solution. Caregivers and parents must educate themselves on a healthy diet and good feeding habits. Social groups can also set up initiatives to educate the community to cook healthy food using the local ingredients. I believe that it is an easy yet effective method to eliminate malnutrition.
Healthcare services also are important. Early treatment can be achieved through regular check-ups to identify malnutrition. Diseases that aggravate malnutrition can be avoided through vaccinations and good medical treatment. Sanitation and clean water projects are also of great essence to ensure that children are healthy.
Finally, the issue of malnutrition in children is a strong one, yet it can be addressed through appropriate actions. It is brought about by poverty, ignorance, poor sanitation among others. The consequences are detrimental, and remedies such as improved food availability, education, and healthcare can be used. In my opinion, it is the responsibility of everyone: governments, communities and individuals to ensure that all children grow up healthy and strong.
Curated by: @wilmer1988