NUTRITIONAL STATUS IN PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY: THE OVERLOOKED KEYS TO MUCOSAL RECOVERY AND LONG-TERM GUT HEALTH

Micronutrient deficiencies represent a critical yet often underestimated determinant of gastrointestinal (GI) morbidity and recovery in pediatric populations. This review synthesizes current evidence on the role of key vitamins and minerals specifically vitamins A, D, B-group, zinc, and magnesium in maintaining mucosal integrity, regulating gut microbiota, and facilitating post-inflammatory tissue repair. The pathophysiological consequences of nutrient deficits, including impaired epithelial regeneration, altered intestinal permeability, dysbiosis, and compromised immune competence, are examined in the context of chronic gastroenterological diseases such as gastritis, colitis, and malabsorption syndromes. Special emphasis is placed on protein metabolism, highlighting its pivotal role in nutrient transport, enzymatic activity, and immune function, as well as the metabolic disruptions observed in pediatric GI pathology. Evidence-based strategies for nutritional correction ‒ including targeted supplementation, optimized dietary intake, amino acid support, and microbiota modulation ‒ are discussed as essential components of comprehensive rehabilitation protocols. Timely assessment and correction of micronutrient and protein status are imperative to improving therapeutic outcomes, accelerating mucosal recovery, and reducing the risk of chronicity in pediatric gastroenterology.