ABSTRACT
Malnutrition is an important public health problem that is caused by a deficient or excess intake of nutrients in relation to requirements. Undernutrition (nutrient deficiency) is the prevalent type of malnutrition in tropical developing countries. At most risk are the poor and disadvantaged, particularly women of reproductive age and young children. Undernutrition reduces immunity, physical activity and work productivity, and, in children, retards growth and psychological development. Undernourished women bear undernourished babies who often become stunted adults – thus perpetuating the undernutrition cycle.
