Micronutrient
Malnutrition
What is Micronutrient Malnutrition?
Billions of people in developing countries suffer from micronutrient malnutrition, also known as "hidden hunger," that is caused by lack of sufficient micronutrients in the diet. These include vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Zinc, and Iron.
Diets deficient in micronutrients are characterized by high intakes of staple food crops (such as maize, wheat and rice), but low consumption of foods rich in bioavailable micronutrients such as fruits, vegetables, and animal and fish products.
Micronutrient deficiencies can impair cognitive development, lower resistance to disease in children and adults, and increases risks for both mothers and infants during childbirth. The costs of these deficiencies in terms of lives lost and reduced quality of life are staggering.
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