A person having stunted growth and discoloured hair is most probably suffering from ________________.

The correct answer is Protein Deficiency.

Key Points

• Protein deficiency can lead to stunted growth in children as protein is essential for the development and repair of body tissues.
• Discoloured hair, particularly a reddish-orange tinge, is a common symptom of severe protein deficiency, commonly referred to as Kwashiorkor.
• Kwashiorkor is more prevalent in areas with limited access to protein-rich foods, such as certain regions in Africa, Central America, and South Asia.
• Other symptoms of protein deficiency may include muscle wasting, edema, and an enlarged abdomen.
• A diet rich in legumes, nuts, dairy products, meat, and fish can help prevent protein deficiency.

Additional Information

• Kwashiorkor:
  • A severe form of malnutrition caused by an inadequate intake of protein.
  • Common in children in developing countries where diets are high in carbohydrates but low in protein.
  • Symptoms include edema, irritability, ulcerating dermatoses, and an enlarged liver.
• Marasmus:
  • Another form of severe malnutrition caused by an overall lack of calories and protein.
  • Characterized by severe wasting of body fat and muscle, leading to a "skin and bones" appearance.
  • Common among children in regions with food scarcity.
• Essential Amino Acids:
  • Amino acids that the body cannot synthesize on its own and must be obtained from the diet.
  • There are nine essential amino acids: histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine.
  • They are crucial for protein synthesis and other metabolic processes.
• Protein-Rich Foods:
  • Foods high in protein include meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
  • Incorporating a variety of these foods can help ensure adequate protein intake.
  • Plant-based proteins can be combined to provide all essential amino acids, such as rice and beans.