methyl groups for synthesizing choline, which prevents accumulation of fat in the liver • Glycine is required for the formation of the porphyrin ring of haemoglobin and is an important constituent of nucleic acids Supply of energy Proteins provide fuel for the body’s energy needs [ Kcal/gm]. Storage Proteins help to store iron and copper. Acid-base balance Proteins help maintain the acid-base balance of the body fluids by acting as buffers. Pregnant and lactating women Provides amino acids for the growth of foetus in pregnancy and for the production of milk during lactation.
- - Proteins and lipids occurring most frequently in infants and young children and often associated with infection (WHO, ) PEM affects children under years of age belonging to the poor underprivileged communities. Under nutrition is a complex condition with multiple deficiencies such as proteins, energy and micronutrient deficiencies often occurring together. According to WHO, malnutrition is an underlying factor in over % of the – million yearly deaths of children under years. .
. Classification of PEM Protein energy malnutrition may be classified into three types as follows: Table . : ICMR Recommended Dietary Allowances for Proteins Group Particulars Protein requirement g/day Man Sedentary work Moderate work Heavy work Woman Sedentary work Moderate work Heavy work Pregnant woman . Lactation ( - months) .
Lactation ( - months) . Infants – months . g/kg/ day – months .69g/kg/ day Children - years . – years .
– years . Boys - years . Girls - years . Boys – years .
Girls – years . Boys - years . Girls – years . .
. Causes of PEM PEM is prevalent in all parts of the world and in all ages. It is primarily a disease that occurs in young children who live in poverty. In India, PEM is the most widespread form of malnutrition among pre-school children.
A majority of them suffer from varying grades of malnutrition. The