Downloads: 6 | Views: 105 | Weekly Hits: ⮙4 | Monthly Hits: ⮙4
Review Papers | Paediatrics | India | Volume 12 Issue 1, January 2023 | Rating: 6.1 / 10
Changing Times, Changing Perspectives: A Relook at Pediatric Nutrition and Growth Status
Mukesh Sanklecha | Praveena Gungam | Irfan A. Shaikh | Ganesh Kadhe
Abstract: Objectives: Linear growth during early childhood is a potent indicator of healthy growth. India?s record of high economic growth over the past decade has not changed its population?s nutritional status to the required extent. This article aims to assess various factors leading to stunted growth in pediatrics. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases for the correlation of stunted growth and nutrional status in pediatric population followed by a panel discussion. Results: About 80% of the variation in height occurs due to genetic factors. Children with inadequate intake of protein and essential amino acids may have low levels of IGF - 1, which may result in restricted growth. Of the absolute accumulated height deficit at 60 months, 70% was found to be because of faltering in the first 1000 days (conception to 24months), and 30% was due to continued increases in deficit from the age of 2 to 5 years. The window of opportunity to address stunting does not completely close at the age of 2 years. Conclusion: Early stunting and its influences are majorly irreversible. A judicious combination of nutrition - specific and nutrition - sensitive strategies together can serve as a useful tool in reducing the menace of childhood stunting.
Keywords: Growth, nutritional status, stunting, nutrition sensitive strategies
Edition: Volume 12 Issue 1, January 2023,
Pages: 148 - 158