Kids have many nutritional deficiencies. As parents, you should know of the common deficiencies that can impact your child’s health and lifestyle. Various factors contribute to these deficiencies, such as poor food choices, limited access to nutritious foods, and certain underlying medical conditions.
We understand your concern for your little one’s health. However, we at Ankura Hospital are here to help you relax. As the leading healthcare providers across India, we have helped many children return to their active lifestyle and be free from sickness. From providing parental awareness of childhood nutrition to helping new mothers learn how to breastfeed, our doctors support and guide all babies & mothers.
What Are the Common Nutritional Deficiencies in Children?
There are many nutritional deficiencies in kids. If any deficiency is not treated promptly, consequences can be severe. If you notice any health issues, you can visit us anytime.
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Iron Deficiency
Iron is an essential nutrient component of hemoglobin. It carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Due to the lack of iron, a child may have fatigue and a weaker immune system.
According to prior medical research, iron deficiency is children’s most common nutritional deficiency. Breastfed babies typically get enough iron from their mothers for approximately 4-6 months of age. However, some babies do not get enough iron. In such a case, pediatricians prescribe iron supplements.
Symptoms of Deficiency
- Pale Skin
- Hair Loss
- Brittle Nails
- Irritability
If the iron deficiency is not treated timely, your child can develop anemia. This may lead to impaired cognitive functioning, learning problems, delayed growth & development, and extreme fatigue. So, book an appointment with Ankura Hospital today to ensure your little one is safe and healthy.
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Vitamin B12 Deficiency
It is helpful for cognitive development, improved immunity, converting food into energy, and the formation of red blood cells.
If kids have plant-based diets with less or no extra supplementation of vitamin B12, they are likely to have a deficiency. Also, if mothers are B12-deficient, children can be deficient too. Some common food items wherein vitamin B12 can be found are meat, dairy, and egg products.
Symptoms of Deficiency
As per research, many children have non-specific symptoms such as:
- Irritability
- Poor appetite
- Weakness
- Less growth
- Development delays
- Weight loss
- Gastrointestinal issues
If the deficiency remains untreated, your child may have neurological issues and paresthesia (a sense of tingling or prickly sensation in arms and legs).
Parental awareness of childhood nutrition is crucial. From the beginning of your parenthood journey, you must visit the doctor for your baby’s regular check-ups. To ensure your baby’s well-being, visit us at Ankura Hospital today. Our pediatrician team is highly trained and uses the latest technology to diagnose & treat the baby precisely.
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Zinc Deficiency
Zinc is one of the crucial minerals required for optimal growth, cognitive functioning, sex hormone development, healthy digestion, and strong immunity.
Are you wondering how much zinc your child needs? Well, you must visit the pediatrician today to know the accurate level. To have an estimate, you can glance below:-
Symptoms of Deficiency
- If your baby is sick with the flu or cold
- Impaired growth & memory
- Learning disabilities
- Poor attention span
- Slow wound healing
Some food items that include zinc are milk, meat, eggs, seeds, nuts, and beans. After you consult the doctor, you can give the required amount of food products.
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Potassium Deficiency
Potassium is a vital mineral, supporting many bodily functions and developmental needs. Some of these include muscle building, supporting optimal growth, proper functioning of the nerve cells, and regulating body acid & water.
Symptoms of Deficiency
As compared to others, symptoms of potassium deficiency are rare. Some of these are:-
- Weakness
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Polyuria ( excessive urine)
- Difficulty in breathing
- Muscular paralysis
After consulting the doctor, you can include some rich sources of potassium in the diet, such as black & white beans and edamame.
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Calcium Deficiency
Calcium significantly supports your baby’s heart health, muscle & nerve functioning, and bone growth. A child consuming adequate calcium may set the stage for developing strong bones & muscles into adulthood.
It is highly known that milk and dairy products are rich in calcium. However, not many people know that calcium can be found in leafy green vegetables, chickpeas, fortified cereals, tofu, nuts, seeds, white beans, and fish (salmon and sardines).
Symptoms of Deficiency
- Dry skin
- Brittle nails
- Dry hair
- Muscle cramps
If left untreated, a calcium deficiency among children can lead to seizures, weakened tooth enamel & other dental problems, impaired growth, and rickets.
Ensure Your Child’s Well-being With Ankura Hospital
As a parent, you must know that nutritional deficiencies in kids are common. To ensure your little one is healthy, you must visit the best pediatrician for proper guidance and support. The doctor can diagnose your child, helping you stay aware of your child’s health status. If your baby faces any health issue or potential risk, the doctor can provide preventive measures and effective treatments, enabling your child to be safe and active.
Ankura Hospital is a reputed healthcare provider across India. Having branches across India, the healthcare providers have helped various children stay healthy. Using modern medicine and advanced technology, our team of pediatricians offers effective treatments, helping your baby recover quickly.
To all new parents, we provide parental awareness of childhood nutrition, breastfeeding support, and much more so that you can care for your baby properly. We are open 24*7 for you. You can book an appointment with us and get the best consultations from our health experts.
