Question

How does malnutrition affect the brain?

Answer 1

Effects of malnutrition on the brain:

1. Structurally, malnutrition results in tissue damage, growth retardation, disorderly differentiation, reduction in synapses and synaptic neurotransmitters, delayed myelination, and reduced overall development of dendritic arborization of the developing brain.
2. It may speed up the rate at which the brain loses neurons, which can lead to impaired speech, coordination, and memory.
3. The cerebellum is found to be the most sensitive brain region to get affected by early malnutrition.
4. Their brains are smaller than normal because of reduced dendritic growth, reduced myelination, and the production of fewer glial cells.
5. Inadequate brain growth causes behavioral and cognitive deficits, including slower language and fine motor development, lower IQ, and poorer school performance.