The link between nutrition, food insecurity, poverty, and the health and development of young children is well documented. Children who lack consistent access to a balanced, varied diet are more likely to have stunted growth, anemia, and deficiencies in key nutrients, including folate, magnesium, thiamin, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc. In addition, prolonged malnutrition can ultimately lead to significant delays in physical, social, and cognitive functioning.
When family resources in general are limited, hunger is likely to develop. Families may be forced to choose between nutritious food and some other necessity. Therefore, policies and programs that work to alleviate poverty in general, as well as policies and programs specifically geared towards nutrition, such as WIC, food stamps, and school lunch programs, can improve a family’s nutrition status and overall well-being. This can result in improved cognitive, behavioral and social outcomes as well as health-related outcomes for children.
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