Three common pediatric nutritional deficiencies are:
Iron Deficiency: Iron is crucial for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, causing fatigue, weakness, and impaired cognitive and physical development in children. It's commonly due to inadequate dietary intake or increased needs during periods of rapid growth.
Vitamin D Deficiency: Vitamin D is essential for bone health as it aids in calcium absorption. Deficiency can result in rickets, a condition characterized by weak or soft bones, leading to skeletal deformities. This deficiency often arises from insufficient sunlight exposure and inadequate dietary intake.
Calcium Deficiency: Calcium is vital for the development of strong bones and teeth. Insufficient calcium intake can impair bone mineralization, potentially leading to osteoporosis later in life. Children may not get enough calcium if their diet lacks dairy products or other calcium-rich foods.