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What symptoms can result from long-term malnutrition in children?

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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.

Long-term malnutrition in children manifests through a range of physical and developmental symptoms, often stemming from inadequate intake of energy, protein, or essential micronutrients.123

General Physical and Developmental Effects

Children experiencing prolonged malnutrition frequently exhibit:
* Growth and Development: Stunted growth, short stature, and failure to thrive.243
* Body Composition: Significant weight loss, muscle wasting, and loss of body fat.243
* Immune System: Increased susceptibility to infectious diseases and impaired immune responses, often due to atrophy of the thymus.154
* Cognitive and Mental Health: Diminished mental function, apathy, and potential long-term impairment of intellectual development.1243

Specific Deficiency Syndromes

Marasmus: Characterized by extreme underweight, loss of subcutaneous fat, and a "skin and bones" appearance.1
Kwashiorkor: Marked by edema (swollen belly), enlarged liver, hair discoloration, and dry, peeling skin.14
Micronutrient Deficiencies: Conditions such as rickets (bone deformities), scurvy (bleeding and poor wound healing), and beriberi (cardiac and nervous system issues) may also occur.24

Early intervention is critical, as severe malnutrition—particularly during the first year of life—can lead to irreversible damage to brain growth and intellectual functioning.1