Even in the United States, where food is plentiful, 1 percent of children suffer from malnourishment, according to Johns Hopkins Children's Center. The World Hunger Organization Service reports that in developing countries, as many as 32 percent of children are malnourished. Moderate wasting can be reversed within two to four weeks with improved nutrition, but stunted growth may take years to reverse, according to a joint study by the University of Copenhagen and Jimma University of Ethiopia.
Protein-Based Foods
Protein-energy undernutrition or malnutrition is the most important type of malnutrition in children, according to the World Hunger Education Service. The Merck Manual reports that around 16 percent of calories in malnourished children should come from protein. High-quality, easily absorbed protein includes eggs, poultry, milk and beef. Adding powdered milk to food increases its protein content. A diet of 4 grams of protein per 1 kilogram, or 2.2 pounds, of body weight supplies an optimal amount of protein for growth.
Fats
While fats are sometimes demonized by dieters, your body needs fats to perform a number of essential functions vital to growth. Children in particular need fats to grow; 50 percent of the calories in breast milk come from fat, a ratio that also applies to the needs of malnourished children, according to the Merck Manual. Emphasize polyunsaturated fats, especially fats high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil.
High-Quality Carbohydrates
Malnourished children may consume mostly bulky carbohydrate foods that fill up their stomachs without supplying the necessary calories or nutrients. Starches and sugars are high in calories and supply needed energy. Keep carbohydrate intake to around 34 percent of the daily calorie intake, the Merck Manual recommends. Milk contains both proteins and carbohydrates; in malnourished children, lactose deficiency does not appear to have a negative effect on malnourished children, the University of Copenhagen report states. Foods high in fiber may suppress appetite and fill a child up too quickly.
Considerations
When feeding a malnourished child, you must start slowly and advance the diet as the child tolerates it. A child with malnutrition can't absorb much food at one time; give six to 12 small feedings per day rather than three large ones. Milk-based formulas are often used as a starting point, not only because they contain the nutrients needed but also because they're easily absorbed. Feeding a malnourished child can cause fluid overload, diarrhea and high blood sugar levels; undertake a feeding program only under the care of your physician.
