What Causes Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM)?

Vitamin Deficiency Community
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  • Diet: Not enough protein and energy (calories) in a child’s diet.
  • Social and Economic Factors: Poverty, poor food availability, and improper food distribution within families.
  • Improper Child Care: Neglect, lack of knowledge about proper feeding, and misconceptions about food can all contribute to PEM.
  • Environmental Factors: Overcrowding and unsanitary living conditions lead to frequent infections like diarrhea, which worsen PEM.
  • Biological Factors: Maternal malnutrition before and during pregnancy can make a child more vulnerable to PEM.
  • Infections: Repeated infections worsen PEM by increasing the body’s need for protein and energy.