What happens if the child does not take enough minerals in their diet

Although the most frequent problem of poor diet is obesity due to excess calories (fats, proteins and carbohydrates), the correct mineral intake is the most complicated to achieve if you do not follow an appropriate diet, being its health impacts very diverse. This is what can happen if the child do

Although the most frequent problem of poor diet is obesity due to excess calories (fats, proteins and carbohydrates), the correct mineral intake is the most complicated to achieve if you do not follow an appropriate diet, being its health impacts very diverse. This is what can happen if the child does not take enough minerals in their diet.

Effects on the child's health if not enough minerals

- Calcium: It is vital for bones and teeth, so children, since they are in a stage of high growth, are among the most susceptible to suffer deficits. Its shortage produces delays in growth, weakness in the bones (increases the risk of fractures) and weakens the teeth. It can also affect the ability to concentrate and produce insomnia.

- Phosphorus: It is the second most abundant mineral in the body, present in teeth and bones. A diet with a good supply of calcium and protein ensures a sufficient amount of phosphorus. Its shortage is related to neurological symptoms, weakness and hypersensitivity, as well as some respiratory problems due to lack of oxygenation.

-Sodium: It is a mineral that usually causes more problems by excess than by default, relating to hypertension and cardiovascular problems that have their origin in childhood. Its deficit, although improbable, is observed in the functioning of the muscles.

- Iron: It is one of the most problematic minerals, especially when vegan or vegetarian diets are followed. Although the supply of iron from vegetables is possible, it is necessary to ensure maximum absorption, accompanied by vitamin C. The most significant symptom is anemia, which is also associated with lack of appetite, weakness and apathy, but also delay in growth and development. On the other hand, anemia in children increases their chances of lead poisoning and the risk of getting infections.

- Potassium: if the child does not take enough minerals such as potassium, he can suffer from nervousness and muscular problems, although it can also cause constipation. Irregular palpitations also appear frequently.

- Magnesium, manganese, zinc, chromium and copper are related to attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders and difficulty in concentration and memory problems. Zinc is also necessary for the immune system and for wound healing, its deficit weakens both, increasing the risk of infections and hemorrhages. The shortage of copper in turn can lead to the appearance of anemia and difficulty in the absorption of calcium. For its part, and given its relationship with muscle function, the deficit in magnesium, although not frequent, produces muscle weakness and fatigue.

- Selenium: Its deficiency is unusual, although its excess produces a disease called selenosis, whose most evident signs are manifested in the hair and weakening nails.

- Iodine: Iodine is necessary for the functioning of the thyroid gland, so its deficiency, more frequent in older children close to adolescence, affects the size and functioning of it. A good contribution ensures the prevention of cretinism, a deficiency that causes mental retardation and growth.