Before we begin: People suffer from hunger if they don’t get enough food. Over time this can cause malnutrition. Some diseases can also cause malnutrition. Read more.
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about malnutrition. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
What is malnutrition? Malnutrition means that your body isn’t getting enough calories or the right balance of nutrients to stay healthy. This can happen if you don’t get enough protein, carbohydrates, and fats, eat too much unhealthy food, or don’t get the vitamins and minerals your body needs.
Malnutrition can affect people of all ages, but children, older adults, and people with chronic (long-term) health problems have a higher risk.
What are the types of malnutrition? Most people think of undernutrition with malnutrition. But malnutrition can refer to undernutrition, overnutrition, or an imbalance of nutrients.
Types of malnutrition include:
Protein-energy undernutrition, also called macronutrient undernutrition, happens when your body doesn’t get enough protein or calories from food. Two serious forms of this are kwashiorkor and marasmus.
An imbalanced nutritional status occurs when you are not getting the right mix of nutrients. You may get enough calories, but not enough vitamins or minerals.
Vitamin deficiency diseases happen when your body doesn’t get enough of certain vitamins. Without the right vitamins, your body cannot stay healthy and may develop specific diseases. For example, scurvy can develop from too little vitamin C, rickets from too little vitamin D, and anemia from too little iron or vitamin B12.
Failure to thrive occurs when children don’t gain weight or grow as expected. This may be due to not getting enough food, trouble absorbing nutrients, or other health problems.
Overnutrition can occur when your body gets too many calories or nutrients. This may lead to obesity or other health issues.
What causes malnutrition? Malnutrition may occur for many reasons, including:
An unbalanced diet that lacks variety or specific nutrients.
Some medical issues, which could include malabsorption syndromes, dementia, eating disorders, depression, alcohol use disorder (AUD), or cancer.
Problems with swallowing, digestion, or dental issues.
Certain medicines that affect how food tastes and smells.
Not being able to get food or cook due to things such as chronic illness, mobility issues, or low income.
Who is at risk for developing malnutrition? Malnutrition can affect anyone, but some people have a higher risk than others. This includes people who:
Don’t have enough knowledge about nutrition
Don’t have access to a variety of food
Are older adults or children
Have a low income
Have a chronic (long-term) illness
What are the symptoms of malnutrition? The symptoms of malnutrition can vary. You may have no symptoms, but if you do, they may include:
Fatigue and weakness
Dizziness
Losing weight without trying
Low body weight
Slow growth or development in children
Frequent infections or slow healing
Dry skin or brittle hair and nails
Swelling in the legs, feet, or belly
How is malnutrition diagnosed? To check for malnutrition, your provider may:
Do a nutritional screening, which may include questions about weight loss, changes in your appetite, and your ability to eat.
Do a physical exam and order blood tests to check for signs that you don’t have enough nutrients.
Refer you to other providers that specialize in nutrition, such as a dietician.
What are the treatments for malnutrition? Treatment for malnutrition may include improving your diet, replacing missing nutrients, and treating the underlying cause.
Can malnutrition be prevented? To help prevent malnutrition, eat a healthy diet with many different foods. Talk with your provider if you are worried about your diet, weight loss, or your child’s growth.
Categories: Food and Nutrition.
Key Takeaways
Understanding malnutrition is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.