Bohol Province – There are a lot of factors affecting the individual’s immune system, one of which is malnutrition. According to World Health Organization, malnutrition refers to deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in a person’s intake of energy and/or nutrients. The term malnutrition covers 2 broad groups of conditions. One is undernutrition which includes stunting (low height for age), wasting (low weight for height), underweight (low weight for age), micronutrient deficiencies or insufficiencies (a lack of important vitamins and minerals), and overweight and obesity.

The child's immune system protects his/her body from external threats. These threats include poisons, bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other types of germs. Various organs, cells, and proteins that make up the immune system cooperate with one another. The immune system's overall goal is to prevent or reduce infection. So, how does malnutrition affect the immune system?

Malnourished individuals especially children is most likely to die from common infections, not starvation. The development and function of immune cells and antibodies can be hampered by malnutrition or a diet deficient in one or more nutrients. Malnourished children are at higher risk of infection and diseases. One type of malnutrition that has been linked to an increased risk of contracting the flu virus and other illnesses is undernutrition. Undernutrition weakens the immune system by inhibiting immunological processes that are essential for host defense due to low intake of energy, macronutrients, and/or certain micronutrients. That’s why proper nutrition is important to anyone especially pregnant and lactating women because the immune system's ability to function depends on proper nutrition. ND II, Sarah Belle I. Antiola, RND