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What is pediatric malnutrition (Gan Ji)?

Nov 05, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Children have an immature immune system, which may lead to reduced immune function, making them susceptible to various pathogens and recurrent infections. This can impair nutrient absorption and subsequently result in malnutrition, often accompanied by symptoms such as repeated colds and fever. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as pidotimod oral solution, transfer factor injection, and bacillus calmette-guerin polysaccharide nucleic acid injection for treatment.

Under normal circumstances, pediatric malnutrition (ganji) may be caused by improper feeding, spleen and stomach deficiency, malnutrition, parasitic infections, or low immune function. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Improper Feeding

If children are fed improperly—such as consuming excessive rich, sweet, greasy, raw, cold, or hard-to-digest foods—their spleen and stomach functions may be impaired, leading to digestive dysfunction and eventually causing malnutrition. It is recommended to adjust feeding practices by establishing regular meal times and portion control, focusing on light and easily digestible foods.

2. Spleen and Stomach Deficiency

Children have delicate internal organs and immature digestive systems, which may lead to weakness in spleen and stomach function, making them prone to developing malnutrition. Dietary regulation is recommended, including consumption of foods that strengthen the spleen and boost vital energy.

3. Malnutrition

Long-term dietary imbalance and lack of essential nutrients in children may lead to general malnutrition, impairing the digestive and metabolic functions of the spleen and stomach and contributing to malnutrition. Symptoms may include weight loss and reduced subcutaneous fat. It is recommended to treat under a doctor’s guidance with medications such as compound vitamin B tablets, vitamin C effervescent tablets, and zinc sulfate oral solution.

4. Parasitic Infection

If children ingest food or water contaminated with parasite eggs, they are susceptible to parasitic infections. These parasites consume the body's nutrients, potentially leading to malnutrition, accompanied by symptoms such as diarrhea and nausea. Treatment under medical supervision may include medications such as amoxicillin capsules, clarithromycin capsules, and metronidazole tablets.

5. Low Immune Function

Due to incomplete development of the immune system, children may suffer from weakened immunity, making them vulnerable to various pathogens. This can interfere with nutrient absorption and lead to malnutrition, possibly accompanied by symptoms like fever and cough. As directed by a physician, treatment may include immunomodulatory agents such as pidotimod oral solution, transfer factor injection, and bacillus Calmette-Guérin polysaccharide nucleic acid injection. However, caution should be exercised when administering medication to children under 3 years of age.

In daily diets, children should avoid spicy, raw, and cold foods to prevent bodily discomfort.

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