Stunting in Children: Causes, Signs, and How to Overcome It

What is Stunting?

Stunting is a condition where a child’s growth is impaired due to chronic malnutrition and frequent infectious diseases. It affects up to 30% of children under five years old. Stunted children often have lower-than-average intelligence levels and face many health risks.

Effects of Stunting

• Increased risk of illnesses and death

• Brain development disorders

• Delayed motor skills and mental growth

Early Signs of Stunting in Children

1. Delayed Physical Growth

   • Slow growth rate even if height is within normal range

   • Smaller facial features compared to peers

   • Late tooth eruption due to weak gums or jawbone

2. Delayed Cognitive, Motor, and Speech Development

   • Brain cells require adequate nutrition; lack of it hampers mental and motor skills

   • Delay in language and learning abilities

3. Difficulty Concentrating

   • Affects performance in preschool and daily activities

   • Challenges in absorbing information

4. Failure to Gain Weight

   • Significant unexplained weight loss or poor weight gain

   • Causes include poor diet, illness, or metabolic issues

5. Increased Susceptibility to Infectious Diseases

   • More prone to infections like diarrhea and bacterial illnesses

   • Possible immune and metabolic system disorders increase risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, coronary heart disease, hypertension, and obesity

6. Small Head Circumference

   • Indicates poor brain growth due to chronic malnutrition

   • Stunted children tend to have smaller heads and facial features

7. Skin, Nail, and Hair Problems

   • Dry, unhealthy skin with rashes or lesions

   • Fragile, thinning hair that may turn reddish due to nutrient depletion

8. Behavioral Disorders

   • Aggression, difficulty adapting socially

   • Lack of serotonin and dopamine affects mood regulation

   • Stunted children often shy and avoid eye contact, especially around ages 8-10

How to Overcome Stunting in Children

• Healthy Nutrition:
  Include a diverse diet rich in grains, nuts, dairy, meats, eggs, fruits, and vegetables (especially vitamin A-rich).
  Animal protein (milk, eggs, fish, meat) is vital for bone development and growth hormone support.

• Psychosocial Stimulation:
  Enhances quality of life, reduces infections, and supports overall development.

• Vaccination:
  Boosts immunity and protects children from many infectious diseases. Follow routine vaccination schedules from birth to 18 years.

• Nutritional Supplements:
  Zinc and vitamin A supplements are effective in improving child growth and overcoming stunting.