Know Hidden Hunger, Micro-nutrient Deficiency Affecting Children

Hunger need not be explained. Every one of us experience it. What do you do when you are hungry? Eat food. Is any food sufficient to satiate hunger? The answer to this question is a tricky one. Satiating the feeling of hunger and body needs unfortunately has become two different terms and has given rise to a new term called “hidden hunger”. What is Hidden Hunger?  Hidden hunger, also known as micro-nutrient deficiencies, is a form of under-nutrition that occurs when intake and absorption of vitamins and minerals (such as zinc, iodine, and iron) are too low to sustain good health and development.

We are aware of the term “nutrients” but what are micro-nutrients? Micro-nutrients are a group of nutrients which are required in trace amounts for normal growth and development. So, small is big because this deficiency can grow to produce irreversible damage if left unattended.  And the worst part is it affects children more. A condition we casually ignore may be the reason for stunted growth, cognitive delays, weakened immunity and infection and we end up drugging our children to cure instead of finding ways to prevent it.