Analysis of the effects on genetic material of nutrients important for the growth and development of the child population

Abstract

Within the bioanthropological field somatic changes related to food consumption and the balance of nutrients in the body are studied. In Argentina, a decrease in acute undernutrition and an increase in obesity, chronic growth retardation and hidden hunger are observed. Hidden hunger is a set of specific micronutrient deficiencies. An unbalanced diet can increase genetic mutation and chromosomal aberrations. Because micronutrient deficiencies are not detected by anthropometric techniques, it is important to design experimental models to investigate their effects. The objective of this paper is to present the results related to the intake of macro and micronutrients of importance for the normal growth and development of the child population. Genomic instability associated with energy and protein deficiency, and micronutrient deficiencies and excesses were evaluated and the established physiological range for children was analyzed.