Assessment of Nutritional and Antioxidant Status of Under-Five Years Children in Funakaye L.G.A Gombe State, Nigeria

Abstract

Malnutrition, particularly in early childhood, compromises immunity, exacerbates illnesses, and increases mortality rates from diarrhea and respiratory infections despite various maternal and child nutrition policies in Nigeria. Micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals, and antioxidants, essential for health, were the primary focus of this research. The study involved 100 under-five children from 10 wards, evaluating; anthropometric indices (weight-for-age, height-for-age, BMI-for-age), antioxidant vitamins (A, C, D, E), and minerals (Zn, Mn, Se, Fe, Cu), along with antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPX). Results revealed significant variations in micronutrient levels across the wards. For instance, vitamin A levels ranged from 933.4±219.0 µg in Tilde Bodor to 1618.7±665.4 µg in Ribadu. Similarly, vitamin C was highest in Jillahi (322.4±99.3 µg) and lowest in Ribadu (191.5±28.9 µg). Variations in other vitamins, including D and E, and minerals like selenium, copper, and zinc, were also statistically significant (P < 0.05). Anthropometric findings showed mean values for mid-upper-arm circumference (MUAC), weight-for-age (WAZ), height-for-age (HAZ), and BMI-for-age (BAZ) at 11.44±2.54 cm, 0.21±0.62, 0.73±0.19, and 0.37±0.79, respectively. The prevalence of severe acute malnutrition (2%), moderate acute malnutrition (9%), overweight (7%), and obesity (1%) highlighted varying degrees of nutritional challenges. Additionally, rates of underweight, stunting, overweight, and obesity were recorded at 6%, 3%, 7%, and 3%, respectively.