INSEGURIDAD ALIMENTARIA Y RETARDO EN TALLA EN NIÑOS DE EDUCACIÓN INICIAL, DE UNIDADES EDUCATIVAS DE LAS ZONAS URBANA Y RURAL DE LA CIUDAD DE LATACUNGA

Abstract

Food insecurity is defined as the lack of access to sufficient and nutritious food. When children suffer from food insecurity, they do not obtain the nutrients necessary for adequate growth and development. This situation can be caused by poverty, lack of resources, lack of knowledge about adequate nutrition and other socioeconomic factors. Food insecurity can lead to chronic malnutrition, negatively affecting the physical and cognitive development of children. Stunting is a key indicator of children's nutritional status, manifesting itself in poor growth in height compared to the child's age. Stunted children are shorter than expected for their age, often as a result of chronic malnutrition related to food insecurity. This problem can have lasting effects on physical and cognitive development, resulting in lower academic performance and increased risk of disease. It is essential to address these problems at the early education stage. Strategies to ensure access to safe and nutritious foods must be implemented, in addition to promoting nutritional education for parents and caregivers. It is also crucial to provide access to quality health services and medical care, and to address underlying factors such as poverty and inequality that contribute to food insecurity and stunting.