Malnutrition is a devastating problem that deprives millions of children of their health, their dreams, and their potential for a better future. It arises from inadequate intake of calories, proteins, vitamins, and minerals in the diet and the body’s inability to absorb them effectively. 

Although this problem affects people of all ages, its impact on young children is greater, hindering their physical growth, weakening their immune systems and making them more susceptible to illness. Another of the severe consequences of malnutrition is stunting – a condition in which growth and development are impaired, with long-term consequences for children’s health and future. 

Failure to thrive in children 

Stunting in children is a significant health problem worldwide, especially in India, affecting millions of people. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), about 35 percent of children under the age of five are stunted, indicating a serious problem of malnutrition among these children, which can result in long-term physical and cognitive impairment.  

What do experts say?

Highlighting the important points , Dr. Mukesh Sanklecha, Senior Consultant, Bombay Hospital, Mumbai, India, says, “Stunting not only affects the physical growth and weight of children but also impairs their cognitive development, immunity and overall health, the consequences of which are lifelong. To combat this, regular screening and monitoring of children’s growth and development is essential. 

This approach can help in early detection of malnutrition and stunting and timely intervention to address the underlying causes of these conditions. Moreover, giving importance to screening for nutritional deficiencies is crucial to building a healthier future for our children. Including nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein in the diet can help prevent nutritional deficiencies and support the overall growth of children.”

How to recognize the signs 

Proper nutrition is essential for children to grow and reach their full potential, yet there are an estimated 149 million children under the age of five who are stunted worldwide, and a third of them, or 46 million, are in India. That’s why parents and caregivers can play a vital role in monitoring their children’s growth and development. Let’s take a deeper dive into why screening is important and how to recognize the signs of stunting.

Recognizing the signs of stunting 

The problem often goes unnoticed in the early stages, but caregivers and healthcare professionals can look for some key symptoms to intervene before the condition becomes serious. These include:

Height-for-age ratio: Children who are significantly shorter than their peers may have stunted growth. Stunting, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), is a height-for-age Z-score that is more than two levels below the average. A child’s height is consistently below the expected height for his/her age. 

Inadequate weight gain: Inadequate or stunted weight gain despite advancing age may be an early sign of stunting. 

Physical appearance: Loose skin around the upper arms or thighs, visible ribs, or a clear lack of muscle mass can be signs of stunting. 

Delay in reaching developmental milestones: Children with stunted growth appear to take longer to reach important developmental milestones such as walking or talking. Delay in reaching developmental milestones such as walking or talking. 

Frequent illness: Frequent infections or illness due to a weakened immune system can also be a symptom of stunting. 

Stunting is a serious challenge, but with consistent screening, awareness, and nutritional supplementation, parents and caregivers can combat this silent crisis in children’s growth and development. 

Why are regular health checkups important? 

Making health management a proactive priority is essential to fostering a healthier and more resilient population. Regular check-ups help in the following ways:

Early diagnosis: Early diagnosis of stunting can lead to significant improvements in the nutritional status and overall health of children. 

Informed Parenting: Screenings or tests provide parents with information about common or consistent patterns in their child’s growth, allowing them to make informed decisions about nutrition and health. 

Availability of resources: Early identification of the problem often leads to access to nutrition programs and resources designed to combat malnutrition. 

Some strategies for children 

Proper nutrition ensures that children receive the essential nutrients they need for optimal growth and development, and therefore plays a key role in preventing stunting. A diet rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats supports physical growth, strengthens the immune system, and aids in cognitive development. 

Early nutritional interventions, especially in the first 1,000 days of life, can significantly reduce the risk of stunting and lay a strong foundation for a healthy future. Encouraging children who are picky eaters to eat healthy foods can be challenging. However, it is crucial to preventing stunting and supporting growth. Here are some steps you can take to ensure they are getting the nutrients they need.

What are the solutions? 

• Introduce variety gradually: One of the best ways to expand children’s diets is to offer them new foods alongside familiar, favorite foods. This approach allows children to easily try different tastes and textures, and increases their likelihood of accepting new foods over time. For example, including fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals can provide essential nutrients for overall health.
• Make food tasty: Involving children in preparing meals or presenting food in creative ways can help them develop an interest in food. This approach not only makes eating a pleasurable experience, but also encourages the consumption of protein-rich foods like eggs, dairy products, and lean meats, which are essential for their growth and development.
• Establish regular meal times: Getting your child into the habit of eating at regular times helps them develop good eating habits. Feeding them a balanced diet at regular times ensures they get a variety of whole grains (whole wheat bread or cereals) and healthy fats (such as nuts and canola/sesame/soybean oil). Both of these foods help maintain energy levels and support brain development. 

Screening is key to early detection and empowering parents against stunting. A balanced diet supports nutrient absorption and growth, which is crucial for children who struggle to eat. Regular check-ups and proper nutrition support children’s health, thereby meeting their immediate needs, which can lead to healthier futures across India.