ABSTRACT
Nutrition is concerned with how food is used by the body, interfaces with gastroenterology, metabolism and endocrinology, and is inseparable from growth and development. Diets deficient in particular nutrients may cause specific diseases or syndromes (such as anaemia and scurvy). Overeating causes obesity. Chronic diseases are frequently associated with undernutrition and nutrient deficits. Nutrient deficiencies lead to depletion of tissue stores, derangement of normal biochemistry and disordered tissue function before they are manifest as anatomical changes and may easily go unrecognized. Awareness of poor nutrition is critical to the effective management of many childhood diseases, particularly those that are chronic, and there is evidence that poor nutrition in early life plays a part in the genesis of adult degenerative diseases. Nutrition services should be provided by a team that works together in the clinic, ward and community to provide nutritional support for children.
