What You Need to Know About Malnutrition

Malnutrition isn’t always about starvation it’s a condition that occurs when your body doesn’t get the right balance of nutrients, whether from eating too little, too much, or not enough of the right things. And it’s more common than many realize, affecting people of all ages across the globe.

Here’s what you need to know about the types, causes, symptoms, and treatments of malnutrition and how to help prevent it for yourself and those you love.

What Is Malnutrition?

Malnutrition happens when your body lacks the nutrients it needs to function properly. This can mean not getting enough food (undernutrition), getting too much food (overnutrition), or having an imbalance of essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Types of Malnutrition

Undernutrition

This occurs when you don’t get enough calories or nutrients. It can lead to:

• Wasting (low weight for height)

• Stunting (low height for age)

• Underweight (low weight for age)

• Micronutrient deficiencies (e.g., lacking iron, vitamin A, or B12)

Overnutrition

Yes, it’s possible to be malnourished and overweight. Overnutrition results from excessive intake of calories, fat, or certain nutrients, often paired with low nutrient quality. You can consume too much food but still lack vitamins or minerals especially when your diet is rich in processed foods.

What Causes Malnutrition?

Malnutrition can stem from a range of factors, including:

• Not enough food or poor diet quality: Common globally, particularly in food-insecure communities or during illness.

• Medical conditions: Digestive disorders (like Crohn’s disease or IBD), cancer, and chronic diarrhea can prevent proper nutrient absorption.

• Alcohol use disorder: Can reduce appetite and impair nutrient absorption.

• Mental health conditions: Depression, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia may lead to poor appetite or disordered eating patterns.

• Socioeconomic challenges: Poverty, food insecurity, and social isolation can prevent people from accessing or preparing nutritious meals.

Who’s at Risk for Malnutrition?

Malnutrition can affect anyone, but some groups face a higher risk:

• Children and infants, especially those with poor feeding practices

• Pregnant and lactating individuals

• Older adults, particularly those living alone or with disabilities

• People with chronic illnesses or digestive conditions

• Those living in regions with limited access to healthy food

According to the World Health Organization, as of 2022:

• 2.5 billion adults and 37 million children were overweight or had obesity

• 390 million adults and 194 million children were undernourished

Signs and Symptoms of Malnutrition

Symptoms vary depending on the type and cause of malnutrition. They can include:

• Unintentional weight loss or gain

• Fatigue, weakness, or dizziness

• Frequent illness or slow healing

• Dry skin, hair loss, or brittle nails

• Mood changes like anxiety or depression

• Poor growth and development in children

• Dental issues or bleeding gums

• Vision changes or poor concentration

Signs in Children May Include:

• Delayed growth or weight gain

• Learning or behavioral delays

• Low energy or frequent tiredness

• Irritability or lack of interest in activities

How Is Malnutrition Diagnosed?

A healthcare provider may perform:

• A medical and dietary history review

• A physical exam to assess weight, muscle tone, and appearance

• Blood or urine tests to check nutrient levels

• Imaging (like X-rays) to detect complications like bone loss or organ damage

Treatment for Malnutrition

Treatment depends on the severity and cause but may include:

• Dietary changes: Eating a balanced, nutrient-dense diet rich in calories, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

• Nutritional supplements: Either oral (like shakes or tablets), through a feeding tube, or by IV if needed.

• Medical treatment: Addressing any underlying condition causing malabsorption or nutrient loss.

• Monitoring for refeeding syndrome: A potentially life-threatening condition that can occur if nutrition is restored too quickly after severe undernourishment.

Working with a registered dietitian can help create a personalized plan that meets your nutritional needs.

What to Eat If You’re Malnourished

If undernourished, focus on:

High-calorie, healthy-fat foods:

• Avocados

• Olive oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oils

• Nuts and nut butters

• Full-fat dairy (milk, yogurt, cheese)

• Fatty fish like salmon or mackerel

High-protein foods:

• Poultry, meat, fish

• Eggs and dairy

• Legumes (beans, peas, lentils)

• Seeds and protein powders

Frequent, small meals with snacks between can help increase overall intake without overwhelming the digestive system.

Can You Be Malnourished and Overweight?

Yes. Overnutrition is a form of malnutrition. People who rely heavily on processed, high-calorie, nutrient-poor foods may gain weight while still lacking key nutrients like iron, vitamin D, and magnesium.

This imbalance can increase inflammation, raise the risk of chronic diseases, and cause symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and poor immunity.

Long-Term Effects of Malnutrition

Malnutrition can have lasting consequences:

1. Impaired growth and brain development in children

2. Increased risk of infections and illness

3. Chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers

4. Vitamin deficiencies, including:
   

   • Vitamin A deficiency: May lead to night blindness and even permanent blindness

   • Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy): Causes gum disease, fatigue, and bruising

   • Iron deficiency: Can lead to anemia, fatigue, and weakness

   • Calcium and vitamin D deficiency: May result in weak bones or osteoporosis

In children, extreme cases of malnutrition may lead to marasmus a severe condition of energy deficiency with visible wasting and stunted growth.

How to Prevent Malnutrition

Preventing malnutrition starts with education, accessibility, and awareness. Steps that can make a difference include:

• Ensuring access to a variety of healthy foods

• Promoting good maternal and child nutrition

• Encouraging regular physical activity

• Using supplements and fortified foods where needed

• Supporting food programs and education in at-risk communities

When to Talk to a Doctor

If you notice any of the following, reach out to a healthcare provider:

• Sudden or unexplained weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or digesting food

• Fatigue or weakness

• Frequent illness or slow healing

• Chronic diarrhea or digestive distress

Early detection and treatment of malnutrition can make a significant difference in recovery and long-term health.

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