Final answer:
Most growth faltering due to undernutrition occurs between the ages of 0-2 years, a time when children are highly susceptible to the adverse effects of undernutrition, leading to wasting and stunting.
Step-by-step explanation:
Most growth faltering due to undernutrition occurs between the ages of 0-2 years. This period is critical as it is characterized by rapid growth and development, making adequate nutrition essential. Undernutrition can result in wasting and stunting. Wasting refers to the rapid loss of muscle and fat tissue, and stunting is a condition where children are too short for their age due to chronic nutritional deficiencies. Undernutrition in early stages of life can have permanent effects, causing growth deficits and influencing a child’s health status well into adulthood.
Undernutrition is a significant problem because during early childhood, the body requires ample nutrients for proper growth and development. Prolonged deficiencies in essential nutrients can lead to persistent health issues such as developmental delays and increased susceptibility to disease. This is why the window between 0-2 years of age is considered so critical for addressing undernutrition and preventing its long-term consequences.