Childhood malnutrition: What parents need to know

It is certainly not a new condition. It has a solution. It is preventable. Yet, even in 2026, children are still dying from different forms of malnutrition.

In Kenya, data from the Kenya Red Cross show that about 784,670 children aged six to 59 months are acutely malnourished and need urgent treatment.

Of that number, 194,378 are suffering from severe acute malnutrition (SAM), with more than half residing in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) counties and refugee camps.

Also read: Child malnutrition in Kenya: AI model can forecast rates six months before they become critical

Children continue to suffer from this condition even though it is a legally binding human rights obligation enshrined in international laws.

The right to food is recognised in the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights as part of the right to an adequate standard of living.

Nation spoke to clinical nutritionist Tecla Njeri, who shared what you need to know about this condition.

What is childhood malnutrition?

Childhood malnutrition is a condition that occurs when a child does not receive adequate or appropriate nutrients to support normal growth, development and health.

What are the different types of childhood malnutrition and how do they manifest?

There are three main types of childhood malnutrition: undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies and over-nutrition.

Undernutrition is the outcome of undernourishment, poor absorption, and infectious or parasitic diseases, alone or in combination.

There are other sub-types of undernutrition including severe acute malnutrition, moderate acute malnutrition and mild acute malnutrition.

In micronutrient deficiencies, a child lacks essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamin A, iodine or zinc.

Over-nutrition occurs when there is excessive intake of highly processed and refined foods, leading to overweight or obesity, sometimes alongside micronutrient deficiencies.

Are types of malnutrition different from forms of malnutrition?

Yes. Forms of malnutrition describe how malnutrition presents clinically in the body. For example, undernutrition can present as stunting—when a child is too short for their age due to long-term inadequate nutrition. There is also wasting, which occurs when a child is too thin for their height, often due to recent or severe weight loss. 
Underweight children have low weight for their age.

What does childhood malnutrition do to a child's body?

Malnutrition affects nearly every system in a child's body. It weakens immunity, increasing susceptibility to infections, slows physical growth, impairs brain development and reduces learning capacity. In severe cases, it can cause organ damage and significantly increase the risk of death if not treated.

What are some tell-tale signs that a parent can see in a malnourished child?

Parents should keep a close eye on their children. Signs include poor or slow growth, thin arms and legs or visible ribs, swelling of the feet, legs or face, frequent infections, low energy or lethargy, hair changes such as thinning or discoloration, skin changes including dryness or peeling, and delayed developmental milestones like sitting up, walking and talking.

What are the treatment options for malnourished children?

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition.

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Mild to moderate malnutrition is managed through improved feeding practices, nutrition counselling and regular growth monitoring.
Micronutrient deficiencies are treated with supplementation and diet improvement.

Severe acute malnutrition requires therapeutic foods, medical care and close follow-up, sometimes in hospital settings.

How can mothers prevent their children from becoming malnourished?

Prevention starts from birth. Mothers should follow nutritional advice given by experts. Ways to prevent malnutrition include:

•    Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months

•    Timely and appropriate complementary feeding from six months

•    Providing a diverse and balanced diet

•    Maintaining good hygiene and sanitation to prevent infections

•    Seeking treatment for childhood illnesses early

•    Monthly growth monitoring

These activities have a significant impact on a child's growth, especially in the first 1,000 days of life. If you notice any signs suggesting your child is malnourished, seek help from a clinician who will provide the best treatment options.

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