Comparison of the Effect of Two Treatments on the Nutritional and Micronutrient Status of Malnourished Children From the Takalik Abaj

Chronic malnutrition evidenced by short height for age is a common nutritional problem in underdeveloped countries which is generally accompanied by iron deficiency anemia and zinc deficiency. It has many consequences on the adult including limited capacity to work and higher risk of obesity and chronic disease. The present study will offer a fortified food, culturally accepted and locally produced. The effectiveness of this fortified food compared to lactose-free milk, in a controlled dose and with no risk to the health of the study participants, will be determined. Both will be distributed for free to be consumed as an atole or in liquid form, respectively, at a community level in an environment controlled as much as possible. This will allow to determine adherence, acceptability, consumption and distribution within the family.