What role do socioeconomic factors play in pediatric nutrition?
Socioeconomic factors, including poverty, food insecurity, and limited access to healthy foods, play a significant role in pediatric nutrition. Children from low-income families are at higher risk for both undernutrition and obesity due to limited access to nutritious foods and reliance on cheaper, calorie-dense, and nutrient-poor options. Addressing these disparities requires comprehensive public health strategies and policies aimed at improving food security and access to healthy foods.