NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCIES IN CHILDREN

1. IRON DEFICIENCY

Iron is an essential mineral for children as it serves various purposes in the overall development of the child. It is the main component of RBC.

It helps in transport of oxygen to body cells.

• SYMPTOMS
• weakened immune system .
• impaired brain function.
• Tiredness
• Weakness

2. IODINE DEFICIENCY

Iodine is an essential mineral for normal thyroid function and production of thyroid, function and production of thyroid hormones.

Iodine plays a major role in the proper synchronized body processes such as growth, brain, development and bone maintenance. It also regulates the metabolic rates.

Its deficiency leads to an enlarged thyroid gland, also known as goiter.

It may also cause an increase in heart rate, shortness of breath and weight gain.

Dietary sources

Seaweed, fish egg and dairy product

3. Vitamin D Defiency (fat soluble vitamin)

This deficiency occurs due to less exposure to sun.

Adults who are deficient in vitamin D may experience muscle weakness, bone loss and increase risk of fractures , rickets.

Dietary source

-cod liver oil

-fatty fish (salmon , mackerel)

-egg yolks

4. Vitamin B12 deficiency

It is responsible for assisting the body in making enough healthy red blood cells. Deficiency in this vitamin is common amongst people who  are

• vegan
• have had gastric surgery
• are over 60 years old
• have diabetes
• have a long history of antacid use

Adequate calcium intake at meal is required for intrinsic factors to assist in B 12 absorption in the small intestine. Its deficiency may cause pernicious anemia .

SYMPTOMS .

• fatigue and weakness  in extremities
• Dizziness
• weight loss
• shortness of breath
• sore  ,red or swollen  tongue
• pale or yellowish  skin

SOURCES :

Meat, egg , milk products etc