Factors Influencing the Nutritional Status of Children Under Five Years of Age: A Literature Review

Abstract

Child malnutrition remains a major public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where inadequate nutrition undermines child survival, growth, and development. Purpose: This study examines key factors influencing the nutritional status of children under five through a comprehensive review of empirical evidence. Methods: A literature review was conducted on 18 peer-reviewed international journal articles published between 2019 and 2024. The studies covered regions in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, involving pregnant women and children under five. Variables analyzed included maternal nutritional intake, micronutrient status, body mass index, birth outcomes, and child growth indicators. Results: Findings show that child nutritional status is shaped by multiple interrelated determinants. Child-level factors, particularly low birth weight and age, were strongly associated with stunting and underweight. Maternal education and nutritional status significantly influenced child outcomes, while low household socioeconomic status increased the risk of undernutrition. Inadequate feeding practices, poor dietary diversity, limited access to clean water and sanitation, insufficient healthcare services, and recurrent infections were also consistently linked to poor nutritional status. Implications: These findings emphasize the importance of integrated, multisectoral strategies addressing both nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive factors, including maternal health, poverty, feeding practices, environmental conditions, and healthcare access. Conclusion: Improving maternal nutrition during pregnancy is crucial for optimal child growth and development. Future research should prioritize longitudinal and intervention-based studies to strengthen evidence for effective maternal and child health policies.