A novel research study from the University of Copenhagen refutes the prevailing assumption that growth in children over the age of two cannot be boosted by nutrient supplements. This research reveals that even older children experiencing stunted growth could benefit from such supplements, and that plant-based proteins are equally as effective as dairy-based proteins for this purpose. Photo Credit: Jack I Lewis, University of Copenhagen.
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Contrary to the current recommendations by the World Health Organization (WHO), the recent research indicates that nutrient supplements could indeed reverse stunted growth in children.
Stunted growth, a condition affecting over one-fifth of children under five globally, results from undernutrition or malnutrition. While not as urgently life-threatening as famine, stunting has long-lasting repercussions on a child’s cognitive and physical development.
In general, children with stunted growth often fail to achieve their full potential height, short by several centimeters. This shortfall in height serves as a visible symptom of the underlying condition, which also affects the optimal development of muscles, organs, and cognitive abilities, ultimately influencing their overall health and future prospects.
Benedikte Grenov, from the Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports at the University of Copenhagen, elucidates, “The children’s bodies are already in a deficient state, lacking the vital nutrients like minerals and proteins that are essential for optimal growth. This deficiency has lifelong implications on their health and physical capabilities.”
Grenov co-authored this groundbreaking study in collaboration with experts from Makerere University in Uganda. The research challenges the long-established approach of global health authorities, led by the WHO, in the management of childhood stunting.
Traditional belief held that nutrient supplements were ineffective in promoting growth after a child turns two. Consequently, efforts aimed at stunting prevention have been primarily directed towards children under this age, and such programs are scant.
However, the new study, involving 750 Ugandan children with stunted growth over a span of three months, contradicts this perspective.
“Our findings clearly indicate that untreated stunted growth can lead to adverse outcomes, but treatment can reverse these impairments, even in children older than two. The successful reversal of this condition in our study participants could significantly improve their adult lives, making them healthier, more robust, and less prone to lifestyle diseases,” stresses Benedikte Grenov.
Effectiveness of Plant-Based Proteins
The research also investigated the efficacy of dairy-based supplements versus plant-based options. Despite earlier assumptions that dairy would outperform due to its high-quality protein and micronutrients, both options were found to be equally effective. This revelation has economic and environmental implications, opening up possibilities for more cost-effective and sustainable solutions.
“It was anticipated that dairy supplements would show greater effectiveness because they contain higher quality proteins and specific micronutrients known to promote growth. However, our data indicated no significant difference between dairy and plant proteins. The critical factor was whether the children received any supplement at all,” added the researchers.
Broader Implications
With approximately 150 million children under the age of five experiencing stunted growth worldwide, finding a universal solution is both economically and practically daunting. However, Grenov suggests starting by treating those with severe stunting as an initial step.
“The encouraging news is that all children in our study, including those with severe stunting, showed improved growth when given the supplement. Hence, prioritizing these children for treatment could be one potential strategy,” she continues, “Another approach could involve enhancing regular family diets with multi-micronutrient supplements and high-quality proteins.”
Study Details
The study involved 750 children aged 1-5 from eastern Uganda, who were monitored for three months by healthcare professionals. These children were suffering from moderate to severe stunting due to malnutrition and were divided into five groups for treatment with different supplements.
The nutrient supplement used was a lipid-based concoction of blended peanuts, with added milk or soy protein, vitamins, minerals, and a carbohydrate sweetener, delivered in small, easy-to-use sachets.
Financial Support
The research was financially backed by Arla Food for Health.
Reference: “Effect of milk protein and whey permeate in large quantity lipid-based nutrient supplement on linear growth and body composition among stunted children: A randomized 2 × 2 factorial trial in Uganda” by Joseph Mbabazi, et al., 23 May 2023, PLOS Medicine.
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004227
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Childhood Stunting
What is the main finding of the research study?
The main finding of the research study is that nutrient supplements can effectively reverse stunted growth in children, even in those older than two years.
How does childhood stunting impact children’s development?
Childhood stunting has long-term detrimental effects on a child’s development, including compromised muscle and organ growth, hindered cognitive development, and overall well-being.
Are plant-based proteins as effective as dairy-based proteins for treating stunted growth?
Yes, the study indicates that plant-based proteins are equally as effective as dairy-based proteins in reversing stunted growth in children.
Why has there been a reluctance to use nutrient supplements for stunted children over the age of two?
Traditionally, it was believed that nutrient supplements could not stimulate growth in children older than two, and there were concerns about potential health risks, such as obesity.
How widespread is the issue of childhood stunting globally?
Approximately 20% of the world’s children under the age of five are affected by stunting due to undernutrition or malnutrition.
What is the suggested approach to address childhood stunting based on this research?
The research suggests prioritizing the treatment of children with severe stunting as an initial step. It also proposes enhancing regular family diets with multi-micronutrient supplements and high-quality proteins.
How were the children in the study treated with nutrient supplements?
The children in the study received lipid-based nutrient supplements containing blended peanuts, with added milk or soy protein, vitamins, minerals, and a carbohydrate sweetener, delivered in small, easy-to-use sachets.
Who funded this research study?
The research was financially supported by Arla Food for Health.
More about Childhood Stunting
- University of Copenhagen Study: Access the full research paper from the University of Copenhagen detailing the study’s findings.
- WHO Guidelines on Childhood Stunting: Explore the World Health Organization’s guidelines on childhood stunting and nutrition.
- Arla Food for Health: Learn more about the organization that provided financial support for this research.
- Child Nutrition: Discover UNICEF’s resources and initiatives related to child nutrition and well-being.
5 comments
wow dis study is big news! kid’s r future, glad dey lookin at helpin em grow.
20% of kids stunted? tht’s a lot, we gotta do sumthin abt it.
gr8 stuff, shows we gotta rethink old ideas bout supplements & kids’ growth.
so, plant proteins = milk proteins? tht’s cool & cheaper!
Proud 2 support this research! Let’s make a change.