It may be due to overnutrition or undernutrition.
An inadequate diet or certain health conditions can cause malnutrition due to undernutrition.
Malnutrition can lead to serious health consequences if not treated and can be life-threatening in some cases.
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Types of malnutrition depend on the cause and include undernutrition and overnutrition.
Overnutrition can lead to overweight or obesity.
It is possible to be overweight or have obesity and still not get enough micronutrients.
What Causes Malnutrition?
Among populations at risk, poor maternal health and nutritionand inappropriate infant and young child feedingcan result in malnutrition.
Poor diet quality doesnt only lead to undernutrition, but can result in overnutrition, as well.
For most types of malnutrition, early signs can be difficult to spot.
In particular, children may experience:
How Is Malnutrition Diagnosed?
To diagnose malnutrition, a healthcare provider usually begins by obtaining a detailed medical and dietary history.
How Is Malnutrition Treated?
The main goal of malnutrition treatment is to replenish the body with adequate nutrition.
Treatment plans are unique to each individual and will vary depending on the underlying cause.
Specific micronutrient deficiencies are treated by replacing those nutrients.
This potentially fatal condition can occur when refeeding is too quickly initiated after a period of severe undernutrition.
Consuming more calories and protein is important, which may mean including snacks between meals.
They may need to focus on including foods and beverages that are fortified or have certain nutrients added.
Nutritional supplements may be needed to help meet daily nutrition goals.
Including foods high in calories, such as those with healthy fats can help you meet daily caloric goals.
How to Prevent Malnutrition
Addressing the root causes can help prevent malnutrition.
Government agencies, schools, and independent organizations can all help with malnutrition prevention.
Addressing food insecurity and increasing education and awareness of malnutrition are important steps in helping to prevent malnutrition.
Complications and Long-Term Effects of Malnutrition
Though malnutrition is treatable, complications and long-term effects can occur.
Malnutrition impacts physical and mental health.
Depending on the severity and length of the malnutrition, there may be effects on growth and cognitive development.
Malnutrition can increase the risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and diabetes.
Some deficiencies can trigger specific health problems, such as the following.
Vision Problems
Night blindnessis one of the first signs ofvitamin Adeficiency.
When it becomes more severe, vitamin A deficiency can lead to blindness.
It results from an overall lack of calories from fat, protein, and carbohydrates.
Loss of fat tissue and muscle mass occurs, and individuals with marasmus are visibly emaciated and severely underweight.
Inflammation and excess fat tissue may be present throughout the body.
It may be from overnutrition or undernutrition.
Malnutrition can lead to serious health consequences if not treated, and in some cases can be life-threatening.
Treatment often includes replenishing calories and nutrients and correcting any micronutrient deficiencies.
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