Good nutrition is very important for childhood development because it is the foundation for mental and physical growth. According to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 16.7 million children in the United States live in food insecure households. This means that millions of children in the U.S. are unable to consistently access enough nutritious food necessary for a healthy life.
What are the risks for children who suffer from nutritional deficiencies caused by food deprivation or limited access to quality foods during their growing years?
Children who suffer from nutritional deficiencies are at risk for having developmental problems, both mental and physical, with consequences for the rest of their lives.
Ex. Poor (stunted) growth of the brain and vital organs, mental retardation, muscle weakness, compromised immune system, fragile bone structure (rickets, osteoporosis), decaying teeth, and many chronic conditions, like asthma and a vast array of illnesses that develop later in life, like diabetes, heart disease and failure of key organs to function properly.
Behavioral dysfunctions such as depression or addictions
How do you know if a child is malnourished?
If a child is not growing or is losing weight, they could be malnourished. Also, lack of attention in school could be a sign that a child is malnourished because they do not have the nutrients required for brain function.
How can someone with limited resources incorporate nutritional foods into their child's diet?
School Nutrition Programs Federal Nutrition Assistance Programs Non-Profit Food Assistance Organizations & Resources Food Budgeting & Shopping Resources - Includes helpful tips such as eating out less and making meals at home, buying seasonal produce, and how to limit waste. For more information, the Nutrition Assistance Resource Guide can be found at usda.gov.
What actions can be taken if your child is currently suffering from malnutrition?
Talking to your doctor or a nutritionist is a great way to gain insights on how to improve your childs overall nutritional health.
What are some of the best ways parents can talk to their children about the importance of a healthy diet?
Understand that diet can be a sensitive topic for many children.
Lead by example and be a good role model.
Eat together as a family.
Make it clear that eating healthy can be fun and delicious.
Bre Taylor is the director of Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center's NICU/Pediatrics.