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Age & Malnutrition

Jul 30, 2011 | By Kimberly Morrow
Age & Malnutrition
Photo Credit Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Malnutrition -- or a deficiency of essential nutrients -- can be caused by poor diet, as well as certain medical conditions that cause malabsorption. There are different types of malnutrition, including protein-energy malnutrition -- a lack of protein in the diet -- and starvation. Malnutrition can happen at any age. Usually it's mild and can be remedied with simple improvements to the diet.

Infants and Children

Malnutrition can be a particularly serious problems for children, because they are still growing. In this age range, malnutrition can most often be attributed to picky eating. But conditions affecting the digestion and absorption of food can be problematic, as well. For example, if an infant or toddler has untreated lactose intolerance, she may suffer excessive diarrhea and vomiting, which prevent her from processing the nutrients she needs. Other medical problems such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease and food allergies can affect the way food is processed, as well.

Adolescents and Teenagers

Malnutrition most often occurs in teens as a result of an eating disorder or the lack of a healthy, balanced diet. Many Americans favor high-calorie, nutrient-poor processed foods over nutrient-dense foods, and teens are no exception. Teens may become nutrition deficient and therefore mildly malnourished. It is interesting to note that teens in this situation can actually be obese while also being malnourished. At the other end of the spectrum, anorexia and bulimia nervosa can also cause malnutrition.

Adults

Malnutrition in adults can occur for a variety of reasons, including health problems, poverty and a general lack of information about nutrition. Those who are homeless or lead marginal lives are often forced to rely on free meals served at churches and shelters. Medical problems such as depression, cancer, diabetes, irritable bowel disease and acid reflux can interfere with digestion and absorption. Resulting malnourishment can range from mild to severe.

Elderly

Because the elderly are already a high-risk group in terms of health, malnutrition is a particularly dangerous problem. Factors such as disease and medication, chewing and swallowing problems, lack of transportation and money and the inability to cook and shop can lead to malnutrition. Many older adults also suffer from depression, which can severely decrease appetite. Many federally funded programs are available to this age group, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Meals on Wheels.

References

Article reviewed by Amy Richards Last updated on: Jul 30, 2011

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