Foods For Malnutrition

Malnutrition is responsible for over one-third of children's deaths worldwide. Although it is most prevalent in developing countries, malnutrition is a serious problem for people across the whole world, including the United States. If untreated, malnutrition can have life-threatening consequences; however, a proper diet, including certain nutrient-dense foods, in conjunction with medical treatment from your physician, can help stop or reverse the harmful effects of malnutrition on the body.

Malnutrition is a serious condition in which your body does not receive enough nutrients to grow and function properly. It can occur for a number of reasons, including an inadequate or unbalanced diet, malabsorption of nutrients and certain medical conditions. According to the World Food Programme, there are two main types of malnutrition: protein-energy and micronutrient. Each type can be serious and life-threatening if you do not treat it properly. The course of treatment usually involves supplementing the missing nutrients in your diet and treating any underlying medical conditions you may have.

Risk

Most people who are malnourished worldwide live in poverty and have limited access to food. Because children need extra nutrients to support growth and development, they are often at higher risk for malnutrition compared to adults. In the United States, however, protein-energy malnutrition is relatively uncommon in children but may affect up to 50 percent of elderly people living in nursing homes. Additionally, some children and adolescents in the U.S. are at risk for micronutrient malnutrition due to low intake of fruits, vegetables and calcium-rich foods.

Protein-Energy

Protein-energy malnutrition occurs when you do not get enough protein or calories over an extended period of time. Depending on the severity of the condition, you may not be able to eat for the first few days of recovery to restore electrolyte and fluid balance. Once you are able to eat, you should concentrate on consuming foods high in protein, calories and essential micronutrients. Eggs, meats, poultry, fish, vegetables, fruits, beans and legumes are good choices. Also, avoiding extremely fatty foods and dairy products in the beginning stages of your recovery may help prevent abdominal discomfort.

Micronutrient

Micronutrient malnutrition can occur when your diet is lacking in one or more vitamins or minerals. Although this type of malnutrition is not as physically visible as protein-energy malnutrition, it still affects many people worldwide. In fact, the most common type of malnutrition in the world is iron deficiency. Generally, recovery begins with taking dietary supplements to treat your micronutrient malnutrition. Once your nutrient status improves, you should adopt a well-balanced diet that can serve as long-term treatment and prevention. Your diet should include a variety of foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, dairy, lean meats, fish and nuts.