Poor nutrition or a lack of proper nutrition causes health problems in adults and children alike. There, one needs to ensure that children get their required nutrients from a young age itself, to avoid them facing issues later in life. They need a good foundation to build on. Micronutrient deficiency can lead to various health issues. Ensure a balanced diet or supplements as needed.
Here are a few signs that your child could have a micronutrient deficiency
- Depression and anxiety
- Hyperactivity
- Delayed speech
- Dry Skin/Hair
- Frequent colds or flu
- Obesity
- Eating mud/chalk
- Mouth ulcers
- Poor appetite
- Lack of energy
- Underperformance in school and sports
Micronutrients are basically the essential minerals and vitamins that the body requires for proper development and growth. The deficiencies occur when the body doesn’t get adequate nutrients via food and other sources. The body needs micronutrients just as they do macronutrients – fats, carbohydrates and proteins, but in smaller quantities. The lack of micronutrients leads to various health issues – skin disorders, stunted bone growth, digestion problems, and other severe illnesses and diseases that could even lead to death.
Some of the main jobs of essential micronutrients are synthesizing DNA, producing digestive enzymes, breaking down carbs, fats and proteins into usable energy for the body, allowing cells to rejuvenate, producing digestive enzymes, aiding in bone mineralization and others.
A lot of micronutrient deficiencies in children occur when they don’t have a balanced diet, especially if it’s one high in processed foods. Your pediatrician will be able to advise you on the best possible diet for your child ,give medications where required and will also conduct regular tests to ensure that your baby is getting everything she or he needs to have a healthier future.