ABSTRACT
This study investigated the causes and effects of poor nutrition on children under the age of 15 years in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State. Four research questions were raised to act as a guide to the study. The questions bothered on the causes of poor nutrition on children under the age of 15 years, the effects of poor nutrition on children under the age of 15 years, the challenges children under the age of 15 years encounter due to poor nutrition and The possible ways to have good nutrition on children under the age of 15 years in Oredo local Government Area of Edo State
A survey research design was employed in carrying out the study. The population of this study was made up of all women residing in oredo local government area of edo state which was estimated eighty four thousand two hundred and ninety one (84,291) (City-population, 2020. An instrument titled “the causes and effects of poor nutrition on children under the age of 15 years” was used for data collection. The collected data were analyzed using simple percentage and descriptive analysis.
The findings revealed that Not taking enough fruits and vegetables causes poor nutrition, independent food choices and restricted diets causes poor nutrition and Poor food choices are causes of poor nutrition on children under the age of 15, it was also noted Bone growth problems in the legs, breathing problems, such as asthma, Type 2 diabetes, early puberty, bone disease in later life are the challenges children under the age of 15 years encounter due to poor nutrition. Based on the study it was concluded that there are various causes of poor neutrino among children under the age of 15 and this factors can lead to impaired growth, muscle cramps, childhood obesity, poor memory and cognitive skills, lack of learning disabilities. In line with the findings, the following recommendations were made:Mothers should provide adequate food availability and consumption for children especially at early stage of their life. Also, Parents should reduce the number of treats available and provide healthy alternatives for snacking.
