Addressing the Double Burden of Malnutrition through Daycare Centers in Lebanon

Abstract

With 9% of children ages 0–5 being obese or overweight—higher than the global average of 6.7%—and 7.3% stunted, 1.1% wasted, and 1.6% underweight, Lebanon has a double burden of malnutrition in preschoolers. Children who suffer from malnutrition have serious long-term social, psychological, and physical health consequences, such as immune system impairment, growth retardation, and an increased chance of developing chronic illnesses as adults. Food insecurity has been worse due to the nation's declining economic conditions, political unrest, and the Beirut port explosion, putting preschoolers at even higher risk. Four main initiatives are suggested in this policy brief: (1) putting in place written policies for physical activity and nutrition in childcare facilities; (2) raising staff nutrition awareness; (3) including parents to encourage healthy behaviours; and (4) improving nutrition education and behaviour in children. The necessity for national policies, long-term funding, qualified personnel, and parent education are only a few of the implementation issues that are acknowledged at the system, organisation, profession, and individual levels. Reducing child malnutrition and reaching SDG objectives 2.2 and 4.2 by 2030 depend on removing these obstacles.