Comparison of Two Nutrition Interventions in Young Children in El Salvador

Adequate nutrition during the first years of life is essential to reach full body and brain development potential. Children under the age of 5 in Central America and El Salvador suffer from micronutrient deficiencies. In El Salvador, \~ 20% of children under the age of 5 suffer from chronic undernutrition which is reflected in low length-for-their age Z-scores and anemia. This trial will examine the impact on health and growth in young children that will receive either a 21 micronutrient fortified cereal/legume mix manufactured in Guatemala or the current standard of nutritional care. The ultimate goal is to identify other feasible and effective alternatives to prevent micronutrient deficiencies through culturally acceptable vehicles.