Final answer:
The most common nutrient deficiency in young children is caused by inadequate iron consumption. Iron deficiency is the single most common micronutrient deficiency worldwide, affecting about 2 billion people. Anemia can lead to increased mortality in infancy and poor cognitive and motor development in early childhood.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common nutrient deficiency in young children is caused by inadequate iron consumption. Iron deficiency is the single most common micronutrient deficiency worldwide, affecting about 2 billion people.
Iron deficiency causes anemia, which is especially common in women and children under the age of five years. Anemia can lead to increased mortality in infancy and poor cognitive and motor development in early childhood.