Malnourishment is defined as not being provided with adequate nourishment or nutrients. A diet that's missing only one essential vitamin is enough to cause malnourishment, explains the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Malnutrition can be fleeting, mild and and easily corrected; chronic malnourishment can develop gradually and persist for long periods.
Types
Malnutrition describes both the nutritional value and the amount of food a person consumes. While not eating enough food clearly causes malnutrition, bad nourishment can also leave you malnourished.
Eating sugary snacks, for example, won't provide the necessary vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that are found in fruits, vegetables and other healthful food choices.
Considerations
Social, physical and psychological issues can all play a role in malnourishment, explains the Mayo Clinic. The elderly, for example, may have health issues that can make chewing or swallowing difficult. Not being able to afford groceries can also be a problem for financially strapped individuals. Alcoholics may become malnourished due to poor appetite and opting for alcohol over food.
Warning Signs
Signs of malnutrition can vary depending on which nutrients are lacking in the diet. Possible symptoms include fatigue, low energy, weight loss, easy bruising and slow wound healing. Malnourishment can compromise the immune system and make people more vulnerable to illness.
Prevention/Outlook
Eating a nutritious diet that includes whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and lean protein sources can help ensure that you do not become malnourished. Avoiding or limiting alcohol consumption can also help.
Nutritional deficiencies can be reserved in most cases, according to MedlinePlus, a website published by the National Institutes of Health. Malnourishment should be taken seriously. Left untreated, malnourishment can lead to illness, physical disability and even death.
References
- Kids Health; Hunger and Malnutrition; November 2009
- Mayo Clinic; Senior Health: How to Detect and Prevent Malnutrition; September 23, 2009
- MedlinePlus; Malnutrition; May 12, 2009
- Seattle Children's Hospital; What Are Hunger and Malnutrition?; October 2006
- World Health Organization: Water-Related Diseases
- PubMed Health; Malnutrition; April 30, 2011
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