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Malnutrition refers to imbalances, deficiencies or even excesses of certain nutrients and/or energy in an individual’s intake. In all its forms, it mainly includes undernutrition, mineral and vitamin deficiencies, overweight and obesity, which may result in diet-related diseases.1
Undernutrition during childhood in particular, is in many circumstances alarming and may result in individuals that are at an increased risk of developing diseases and sometimes death.1
Undernutrition includes 4 sub-forms: stunting, wasting, underweight, and deficiencies in vitamins and minerals.2
- Stunting is known as low height for age, resulting from recurrent or even chronic undernutrition. It is mostly associated with low socioeconomic conditions, recurrent illnesses, inappropriate maternal nutrition, inappropriate child care at early stages, and/or poor child/infant feeding. Stunting refrains children from reaching their cognitive and physical potential.2
- Wasting is known as low weight for height. It is usually the result of severe weight loss due to various possible reasons, including mainly: poor energy and nutrient intakes, and infectious diseases responsible for severe diarrhea. Moderately or severely wasted children are exposed to increased risks of death, however, it is treatable and reversible.2
- Underweight is known as low weight for age resulting mainly from poor intake. A child that is underweight may also be wasted, stunted, or even both.2
Dr. Nayla Sfeir
Pediatrician
