Relationships among Dietary Quality,Children's Appetites,Growth Stunting,and Efficiency of Growth in Poor Populations

Abstract

In Jamica, as in other developing countries less well off, the diets of low-income children are low in energy and protein relative to recommended intakes. Dietary intake is further reduced by anorexia which accompanies infections as well as deficiencies of specific essential nutrients in the diet, such as essential amino acids, potassium, phosphorus, or zinc. Imbalanced diets also limit synthesis of lean tissue and result in growth failure. The results of food-supplementation studies in young children in the developing world have indicated little effect on weight or height gain. In spite of being offered large amounts of dietary energy, the children receive far less than intended because of the anorexia caused by infection, specific nutrient deficiencies, and imbalanced diets. Attention should be paid to nutrient balance (quality) as well as nutrient intake (quantity) in both diets and dietary supplements offered to these children.