How does malnutrition affect a child's growth and resistance to infection?

Malnutrition significantly impairs a child's physical development and immune function, creating a cycle of poor health.

Impact on Growth

Prolonged malnutrition leads to failure to thrive, characterized by weight loss, muscle wasting, and the loss of body fat. Children experiencing these deficiencies often exhibit stunted growth, which can result in long-term consequences such as short stature. In severe cases, such as during the first year of life, malnutrition may also lead to reduced brain growth and impaired intellectual functioning that may not be fully reversible.1234

Impact on Resistance to Infection

Malnutrition is a major cause of immune deficiency, as it impairs both antibody responses and cell-mediated immunity. This is often linked to the atrophy of the thymus and a subsequent deficiency of helper T cells. Consequently, malnourished children are significantly more susceptible to infectious diseases, including measles and diarrhea. This vulnerability is exacerbated by the deterioration of the gastrointestinal tract, which further hinders nutrient absorption and weakens the body's defenses. Fortunately, if adequate nutrition is restored, the immune system and the thymus can often recover completely.542