Why do the abdomens of malnourished children protude so much?

Low Protein Levels: A balance exists between the protein levels in our blood and the fluid phase of our blood. Severely malnourished people have a lack of protein and calories in their diets. Similar "belly" protrusion can occur in adults with alcohol abuse as the alcohol only contains carbs and no protein. Fortunately in children adequate nutrition can improve the problem.

Malnutrition : Malnourished children has protuberant abdomen because they lack protein in their diet that makes all fluids accumulate in their abdomen. On top of it, their liver and spleen and liver are usually enlarged adding to their protuberant abdomen.