Food Insecurity and Micronutrient Deficiencies in the Pediatric Population: A State-of-the-Art Review

Abstract

Food insecurity is a very prevalent problem in the United States that effects all ages, including children. Lack of stable access to food may result in reduced intake of micronutrients, which can affect a child's nutrition and overall health and outcomes. The goal of this state-of-the-art review is to investigate what, if any, relationship exists between food insecurity and micronutrient deficiencies in children in the United States. This review yielded few studies on this particular topic. The literature available indicated a potential relationship between food insecurity and deficiencies in certain micronutrients, including iron, magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin D, and calcium. However, since there was limited literature available, more evidence is needed to establish the significance of this relationship and determine how the health of food-insecure children is being impacted.