Which nutrient deficiency is commonly associated with kwashiorkor?

Kwashiorkor is a type of malnutrition that primarily results from a deficiency in protein intake, despite adequate caloric intake. It typically occurs in children who are weaned from breast milk to a diet rich in carbohydrates but low in protein. This condition is characterized by symptoms such as edema, irritability, and a distended abdomen, which arise from a lack of essential proteins needed for growth and development.

The key distinction in kwashiorkor is that while the energy (caloric) needs may be met through carbohydrates, the insufficient protein leads to severe physiological effects. This deficiency impairs the body's ability to maintain muscle mass and synthesize essential compounds, such as hormones and enzymes, contributing to the symptoms associated with the condition. Thus, the focus on protein deficiency highlights the critical role that protein plays in maintaining overall health and preventing malnutrition-related diseases like kwashiorkor.