Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences - Vol.5, No.2, August, Year 2009
Author: Le Thi Hop, Ha Huy Khoi
Summary:
Nutrition plays a key role in the whole process of human growth and development. In the fetal period, the fetus develops from an egg cell to 2x1012 cells at delivery and 30 times more when the body is totally mature. Each serious damage in nutrition and metabolism at certain point would weaken developing functions that could not been recovered later on. Fetal malnutrition leads to low birth weight, low head circumference and body length. Evidences show that low birth weigh babies due to maternal malnutrition are at higher risk of cardiovascular diseases in later life. The body development generally depends on many factors, such as genetics, endocrine, vegetative nervous system, and nutrition. The 3 former factors ensure certain potential development and proper nutrition provides necessary material to achieve that potential. The efficacy of foods on development may vary from individual to individual and within an individual with different dietary conditions. With temporary food shortage, the body’s growth is slowing down but it can be recovered when food is sufficient again. However, if the improper nutrition sustains, the recovery can be constrained. Therefore, child nutrition should be paid due attention.
Keyword: Nutrition, growth.
