Intergenerational Cycle of Malnutrition & Ill Health

Year : 2025 | Volume : 14 | Issue : 01 | Page : 19 25
    By

    Neetu Saharan,

  • Sakshi Chaudhary,

  • Amit Kumar,

  1. Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Dr. K.N.Modi Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Modinaga, ,
  2. Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Dr. K.N.Modi Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Modinaga, ,
  3. Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Dr. K.N.Modi Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Modinaga, ,

Abstract

Malnutrition is a pervasive global issue that significantly undermines the health, productivity, and overall development of individuals, particularly in low-income and developing regions. It affects all age groups but disproportionately impacts young children and women, perpetuating an intergenerational cycle of ill health and poverty. Factors such as economic disparities, lack of education, and entrenched social inequalities exacerbate the prevalence of malnutrition, making it a critical barrier to achieving sustainable development goals.
This paper delves into the multifaceted nature of malnutrition, focusing on the vicious cycle it creates, where undernourished mothers give birth to underweight children, perpetuating a cycle of poor health and diminished economic prospects. Special emphasis is placed on the role of early childhood nutrition, particularly for girls, as they are the future bearers of the next generation. The severe impacts of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) are discussed, highlighting its role in stunting physical growth, impairing cognitive development, and reducing life expectancy.
Practical solutions such as the use of fortified weaning foods, culturally appropriate home-based food preparations, and community-led initiatives to enhance infant and maternal nutrition are explored. The paper also provides evidence-based strategies to break this intergenerational cycle by promoting gender equality, improving access to education, and ensuring food security, thereby paving the way for healthier generations and sustainable development.

Keywords: Malnutrition, intergenerational cycle, protein-energy malnutrition, weaning foods, infant nutrition, food allergy, dietary intervention, childhood mortality, sustainable development, anemia.

[This article belongs to Research & Reviews : Journal of Food Science & Technology ]

How to cite this article:
Neetu Saharan, Sakshi Chaudhary, Amit Kumar. Intergenerational Cycle of Malnutrition & Ill Health. Research & Reviews : Journal of Food Science & Technology. 2025; 14(01):19-25.
How to cite this URL:
Neetu Saharan, Sakshi Chaudhary, Amit Kumar. Intergenerational Cycle of Malnutrition & Ill Health. Research & Reviews : Journal of Food Science & Technology. 2025; 14(01):19-25. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjofst/article=2025/view=195729


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 14
Issue 01
Received 11/12/2024
Accepted 25/12/2024
Published 07/01/2025
303

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