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Marasmus: Group Members: Ishcah Nelson, Atarah Taylor

Marasmus is a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition characterized by extreme weight loss, muscle wasting, and stunted growth due to inadequate food intake. It can be prevented and treated through a balanced diet rich in calories and proteins, rehydration, and nutritional rehabilitation. If not addressed, marasmus can be deadly, particularly in children.

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19 views7 pages

Marasmus: Group Members: Ishcah Nelson, Atarah Taylor

Marasmus is a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition characterized by extreme weight loss, muscle wasting, and stunted growth due to inadequate food intake. It can be prevented and treated through a balanced diet rich in calories and proteins, rehydration, and nutritional rehabilitation. If not addressed, marasmus can be deadly, particularly in children.

Uploaded by

halltian99
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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MARASMUS

GROUP MEMBERS: ISHCAH NELSON, ATARAH TAYLOR


WHAT IS MARASMUS ?

• Marasmus is a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition characterized by a


deficiency of all macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fats), leading to
extreme weight loss, muscle wasting, and a shrunken, wasted appearance.
• Symptoms of marasmus includes :
• Extreme weight loss- individuals with marasmus severely underweight and emaciated.
• Muscle wasting- muscle tissue breaks down, leading to a noticeable loss of muscle
mass.
• Loss of subcutaneous fat- the body looses fat stores, making bones and ribs
prominent.
• Stunted growth- children with marasmus may be stunted in size and development.
• Irritability and lethargy- children become irritable and have a lack of energy.
WHAT CAUSES MARASMUS ?

Its primarily caused by inadequate food intake, often seen in


areas with limited access to nutritious food or during times of
famine or drought.
FOODS THAT HELPS PREVENT MARASMUS
• Animal sources- lean meats,
poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy
• Protein rich foods
products ( milk yogurt cheese).
• Plant sources- beans, lentils,
chickpeas, nuts, seeds and tofu.

• Starchy foods- bread, rice,


• Calorie rich foods potatoes, pasta and other grains.
• Healthy fats- avocados, nuts,
seeds, and olive oil.
TREATMENT AND PREVENTION FOR MARASMUS

• Treatment • Prevention
• Rehydration- the initial focus is on treating
dehydration and electrolytes imbalance. • Adequate calorie and protein intake- ensuring a
balanced diet rich in calories and proteins is
• Gradual refeeding- breeding must be done essential.
slowly to avoid receding syndrome, a
potentially life threatening complication. • Breastfeeding- promoting exclusive breastfeeding
for the first six months of life is crucial for optional
• Nutritional rehabilitation- this involves infant nutrition and growth.
providing a balanced diet rich in calories
• Education and support- educating mothers and
and proteins. caregivers on the dangers of marasmus.
CONCLUSION

• Marasmus is a very deadly nutrient deficiency that take the lives of many children
if not addressed properly. Please ensure to take the necessary precautions to
keep your child healthy and alive. Thank you.

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