Malnutrition and Vitamins

When your body does not get all of the nutrition it needs, you may become malnourished. Nourishment for your body comes from macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins and fats. But your body also needs certain vitamins to keep it properly functioning. Without adequate vitamin intake, you risk suffering from some pretty serious conditions.

Causes

More than just a lack of eating can contribute to malnourishment. Some people have a problem digesting and absorbing nutrients. Although they are eating a well-balanced diet, their body is unable to take in the vitamins. For others, certain medications may get in the way of absorbing vitamins. According to MayoClinic.com, malnutrition is common in the elderly. Declining health, depression, a limited income and food restrictions may make it hard for an elderly person to take in all of the vitamins his body needs.

Signs and Symptoms

If a person is malnourished, there are certain signs and symptoms that the body may display. Depression and fatigue are two signs, while frequent sickness may be another because the immune system is compromised. More symptoms include weight loss, anemia, muscle fatigue and weakness, organ problems and skin abnormalities.

Vitamin Deficiencies

Vitamins A,D, E and K are all called fat-soluble vitamins. This means they are stored in the fat tissue inside of your body. Since you keep a supply of these vitamins, the likelihood of developing malnutrition from a lack of the fat-soluble vitamins is not common. The B vitamins and vitamin C are water soluble vitamins, meaning they are excreted in your urine. The most common vitamin deficiency in Americans is of folic acid, a B vitamin. A folic acid deficiency can cause anemia and, if you are pregnant, can lead to neural tube defects in your fetus.

Prevention

The easiest way to be sure that you are getting all of the vitamins you need is to take a multivitamin. Most nutrients can be obtained by following a well-balanced diet, but if you have issues with your dietary intake, it is wise to take a multivitamin. A multivitamin can provide all of the necessary vitamins and minerals your body requires.