Micronutrient deficiencies in the developing world: An evaluation of delivery methods

Malnutrition is a serious problem in developing countries, particularly among children under five and women of childbearing age. Expectant and nursing mothers are especially vulnerable to micronutrient deficiencies. Effects of micronutrient deficiencies such as weakened immune systems, overall morbidity, and stunted childhood growth are reversible in the critical age group of 0 to 5. Providing children with the essential nutrients lacking in their diets during infancy is essential as it can lead to long-lasting health benefits. Many solutions have been researched and implemented to increase micronutrient intake in the diets of people in developing nations. Implementation of the solutions have ranged from national policies such as the mandatory fortification of certain food products and educating rural communities about improving nutrition levels, to the in-home application of micronutrient fortification powders. The spectrum of solutions has strengths and weaknesses; however, few, if any solutions have been successful at decreasing nutrition deficiencies on a macro scale. This article presents a comprehensive review of academic studies detailing different methods of delivering nutrients to individuals in developing countries. The results of this review are categorized and synthesized into a framework describing the approach, range and success of different strategies to help vulnerable groups meet their micronutrient needs. Understanding this framework will help in identifying gaps in current efforts to address micronutrient deficiencies and improve the current integration techniques into settings with insufficient resources to satisfy dietary needs of populations.