Analysis of the Behavioral and Physiological Impacts of Basic Nutrition Among Children in an Orphanage Home in Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the awareness of nutrition among orphanage children in Enugu State, Nigeria, evaluate the factors influencing their nutritional status, and assess both the behavioral and physiological impacts of basic nutrition on these children. Methods:Cross-sectional, quantitative study was conducted at Father Monti Home for Orphans and Needy Children in Enugu North Local Government Area.A total of 19 orphaned children above the age of 8 were randomly selected, with an effective sample size of 20 after accounting for attrition.Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographics, nutritional awareness, influencing factors, and perceived behavioral and physiological impacts.Descriptive statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS version 23. Results:The majority of participants (73.7%) were aged 8"13 years, and 72.2% were male.All were single orphans and actively schooling.Nutritional awareness was high, with 88.9% recognizing nutrition as essential for body function and 84.2% feeling they received adequate nutrients, though the same percentage expressed a need for more nutrient-rich meals.Key factors influencing nutrition included overcrowding and caregiver education, with 72.2% agreeing that overcrowding reduced food supply, and 83.4% linking better nutrition outcomes to caregiver education.While behavioral effects such as sadness or perceived inferiority were minimal, 52.9% reported sleep disruption due to hunger.Physiologically, 33.3% experienced vomiting or diarrhea after meals, and 68.4% felt their peers were taller than them, suggesting possible growth delays. Discussion:The study reveals that while behavioral impacts of poor nutrition are less prominent among orphans, physiological effects such as stunted growth and gastrointestinal disturbances are more prevalent.Nutritional awareness is relatively high, but underlying challenges persist, particularly related to caregiver literacy, sanitation, and food quality.These findings emphasize the need for enhanced caregiver training, government support, and regular health monitoring by professionals to improve the wellbeing of children in orphanages.