Young children frequently develop thrush, an infection caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans, which is part of the natural microflora. Diet and immune capacity play a major role. Research also indicates that even mild deficiencies of protein, vitamins A and D, as well as iron and zinc, increase the risk of this unpleasant oral infection. These findings are reported in a study published in Nutrients.
Nearsightedness is a vision condition that typically begins in childhood and often worsens during adolescence. However, a diet rich in omega-3fatty acids from fatty fish appears to reduce the risk of children and adolescents developing nearsightedness, according to a Chinese study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology. The findings also suggest that the omega-3 fatty acid DHA, found in fatty fish and fish oil supplements, plays a particularly important role in eye health.
Breast milk is packed with nutrients that are naturally designed to support a newborn’s growth and development. It is therefore recommended that newborns receive only breast milk during their first six months. However, preterm infants with low birth weight who are exclusively breastfed without additional multivitamin supplementation do not get enough B vitamins. According to a Norwegian study published in Nutrients, this can have a number of health consequences, especially ones that involve the central nervous system. The authors therefore recommend that mothers of preterm infants with low birth weight receive specific dietary guidance in order to optimize their children’s vitamin and mineral status.
Zinc deficiency is widespread, and a refined or plant-based diet increases the risk. The widespread zinc deficiency appears to contribute to the growing number of children who develop asthma and hay fever. In addition, zinc deficiency may be an overlooked factor that reduces the effectiveness of medical treatment, as shown in a review article published in Nutrients. According to the researchers, zinc plays a crucial role in maintaining strong mucous membranes, supporting immune function, and regulating inflammation. For this reason, zinc supplementation may represent a new, safe, and inexpensive complementary approach in the management of asthma and hay fever.
