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How does chronic undernutrition affect children’s growth and development?

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USDA MyPlate dietary guidelines — human nutrition MyPlate, a revised set of dietary guidelines introduced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 2011, divides the four basic food groups (fruits, grains, protein, and vegetables) into sections on a plate, the size of each section representing the relative dietary proportions of each food group. The small blue circle shown at the upper right illustrates the inclusion and recommended proportion of dairy products in the diet.

Chronic undernutrition significantly impairs a child’s physical and mental development, often leading to long-term health consequences. Because children are in a critical stage of growth and development, persistent hunger and nutrient deficiencies can result in stunted growth, short stature, and muscle wasting.123

The physiological impacts include:

Physical Development: Children may experience failure to thrive, characterized by low body weight and the loss of muscle and fat stores. Specific deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamin D, can lead to bone deformities like rickets.123
Immune Function: Malnutrition causes atrophy of the thymus, which severely impairs the immune system. This leaves children highly susceptible to infectious diseases, such as measles and diarrhea, which are major contributors to mortality.452
Cognitive and Mental Health: Chronic undernutrition, particularly during the first year of life, can reduce brain growth and impair intellectual functioning. These effects may be permanent, raising significant concerns regarding long-term cognitive development.42

Addressing these conditions requires urgent nutritional rehabilitation to restore metabolic function and support the recovery of the immune system and physical growth.43