What do blindness, stunted growth, and brain damage in children all have in common? They can all be caused by a form of malnutrition that is largely invisible and nearly entirely preventable — micronutrient deficiency, also known as hidden hunger.Deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, iron, folic acid, and iodine can have devastating effects. While these nutrients are only needed in very small amounts, they are essential for normal growth and optimal health. Deficiency can prevent an expectant mother from carrying to term or cause a child to endure irreversible brain damage and thereby limit his or her ability to learn, earn a living, or live a healthy life. These debilitating consequences damage whole communities, as well as economies.
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