La educación alimentaria como una herramienta para combatir la malnutrición infantil en América Latina

The research addresses food education as a fundamental strategy to combat child malnutrition in Latin America, a public health problem that severely affects the physical, cognitive and emotional development of children. Child malnutrition and overweight are interrelated phenomena that limit socioeconomic progress and represent a crucial challenge for vulnerable communities. The main objective was to identify the role of food education as a key tool to mitigate child malnutrition, considering the socioeconomic, cultural and pathophysiological factors that influence its prevalence. For this purpose, a descriptive documentary research was carried out based on recent studies. Among the results, poverty, low educational level of caregivers, limited access to basic resources and inadequate feeding practices were identified as determinant factors. In terms of pathophysiology, malnutrition affects the immune system, causes metabolic imbalances and delays physical and cognitive development, and is particularly serious in regions with high levels of inequality. Food education has emerged as an effective tool for promoting healthy eating habits and raising awareness of the risks associated with malnutrition. Educational strategies adapted to each social and cultural context proved to be essential to improve child well-being. In conclusion, addressing child malnutrition requires comprehensive interventions that combine nutrition education, inclusive public policies, and equitable access to essential resources in order to ensure the optimal development of children in Latin America