Healthy eating is important for the growth and development of children. If your child does not eat enough for a long time, as a parent or caregiver you may worry whether your child is malnourished. Eating too little is not the only cause of malnutrition. With certain diseases, nutrient absorption is reduced or your child’s nutritional needs are increased.

Symptoms of malnutrition

One of the main indications of malnutrition is reduced growth. Your child’s height and/or weight will then not increase as expected. Your child’s development is tracked in a growth curve. Your doctor takes into account that every child develops at his own pace. Your child’s growth rate can be disrupted by illness or poor eating behavior, for example. Malnourished children can also suffer from low energy, depression and a less well-functioning immune system, making them more susceptible to infections, for example.

Possible causes of malnutrition

Disease is a major cause of malnutrition and underweight in children. But even children who are not sick can become malnourished. Conditions can lead to malnutrition in several ways:

• Insufficient food intake (for example due to eating problems or as a result of a swallowing disorder);
• Increased energy needs (for example in case of fever, infection or underlying illness);
• Increased loss of nutrients (for example in case of diarrhea, vomiting or disturbed food digestion).

Consult your GP, pediatrician or pediatrician if you are concerned about the health or development of your child. Do you see eating problems in your child? Or is your child growing less well or even losing weight? Your doctor can determine whether malnutrition is present and what treatment is necessary.

Medical nutrition for children with disease-related malnutrition

When normal nutrition fails or is not sufficient to maintain a good nutritional status, medical nutrition can be a solution. Nutricia has various products, tailored to the age, nutritional needs and taste preferences of your child. These foods are prescribed by a doctor or dietician and should be used under medical supervision.

Are you a healthcare professional and would you like more information about disease-related malnutrition in children? Then log in to our platform.