Lab Tests Online defines malnutrition as a disparity between the amount of food eaten and the amount of nutrients that the body requires in order to stay healthy and function properly. Malnutrition can be associated with overnutrition, which is the consumption of excess amounts of nutrients, but usually refers to undernutrition. Undernutrition occurs when there is a lack of adequate nutrients in the body.
Physiology
In order for the body to run properly, it requires the macronutrients fats, carbohydrates and proteins in large amounts. These nutrients provide calories, which in turn, provide the body with energy. When the body does not receive enough calories, it begins to use its fat stores as a primary energy source. When the fat stores are depleted, the body turns to muscles and other body tissues for energy and begins to break those down. Initially, this leads to severe weight loss. As the muscles and tissues become depleted, it can lead to severe problems, including death.
Causes
Malnutrition can occur as a result of inadequate food intake, digestive disorders, problems with absorption and other medical conditions, according to Medline Plus. Excess consumption of alcohol can also lead to malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies.
Symptoms
In addition to weight loss, malnutrition can cause a variety of other adverse symptoms. Symptoms of malnutrition are usually dependent on which nutrient is missing. Some common symptoms of different types of malnutrition include anemia, dry skin, edema, bone and joint pain, brittle nails and loss of hair color, according to Lab Tests Online. General symptoms that usually occur with all types of malnutrition include fatigue and dizziness.
Treatment
Treatment for malnutrition focuses on correcting the malnutrition and restoring normal weight. If malnutrition is caused by inadequate food consumption, an increase in food intake is recommended. If malnutrition occurs as a result of underlying medical conditions, it is necessary to correct the condition. Once the condition is corrected, the malnutrition usually corrects itself with a proper, balanced diet.
Prognosis
Most cases of malnutrition can be successfully corrected with proper treatment. If left untreated, malnutrition can lead to mental confusion, physical disability and severe illness, according to Medline Plus. In severe cases, malnutrition may also lead to death.
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