Question

Kwashiorkor is a disease which is caused due to deficiency of
(a)Only carbohydrates
(b)Only proteins
(c)Both carbohydrates and proteins
(d)Fats and carbohydrates

Answer 1

Hint Kwashiorkor is also known as “edematous malnutrition” because of its close association with edema (fluid retention) which causes swelling in the ankles, feet, and belly. It is a nutritional disorder and often seen in regions of the world experiencing famine.

Complete answer:
Kwashiorkor is a form of malnutrition that is mainly caused by a lack of protein in the diet. People with this disorder typically have a weak looking body, and ankles, feet, and belly swell due to fluid. As every cell in your body contains protein therefore it should be an essential part of a diet. Protein is needed in your diet to repair damaged cells and also to produce new ones. In this manner, a healthy human body regenerates cells constantly. Protein also becomes essential during childhood growth years and pregnancy. Growth and normal body functions will begin to shut down, and kwashiorkor may develop if the body will lack protein.

Additional information:
The symptoms of kwashiorkor include:
-Skin texture and hair color change(to a rust color)
-Feeling of tiredness
-Diarrhea
-Loss of body weight and muscle mass
-Edema (swelling) of the ankles, feet, and belly
-Damaged immune system, which may lead to more frequent and severe infections
-Shock and irritability
Most commonly people who get affected by kwashiorkor, recover fully if they are treated early. Introducing extra calories and protein into the diet can be one way of treatment. Children who develop kwashiorkor at an early age may not grow or develop properly and may remain stunted for the rest of their lives. There can also be serious complications when treatment is delayed, including coma, shock, and permanent mental and physical disabilities. If kwashiorkor is left untreated it can be life-threatening. It can cause major organ failure in the body and eventually death.

So, the correct answer is 'Only proteins'

Notes: Nutritional diseases like kwashiorkor or any of the nutrient-related diseases and conditions can cause serious illness in humans. Other nutrition deficiency based diseases may include, obesity and eating disorders, and chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, cancer, and diabetes mellitus.