Malnutrition is a serious condition caused by a lack of nutrients in your diet. It can refer to both undernutrition (not getting enough nutrients) and overnutrition (getting more nutrients than needed). Dietary choices can have a big impact on your health. Malnourished people are more susceptible to developing certain medical disorders and complications. A healthy lifestyle can only be achieved by eating a well-balanced diet that includes all of the body’s essential nutrients.
Malnutrition can also refer to the excesses of certain nutrients which can lead to obesity, a condition that, like hunger, raises the risk of disease and disability, lowers worker productivity, and shortens life expectancy. Overeating is far more widespread in the western world since food is readily available to the majority of people. More than one-third of adults in the United States are obese, and frequent fast-food consumption has been linked to weight gain.
Due to pricing, menu options, flavor, and taste, fast food consumption has been on the rise. Fast food is consumed daily by over 30% of children and over 50% of college students. Aside from the poor nutrition among young people in recent years, increased food intake and significant changes in eating habits are the most important contributors to the obesity epidemic.
When you don’t get enough of a certain nutrient, it’s called a nutritional deficiency. This can happen once the body is unable to absorb nutrients from food or when there is insufficient food containing a particular nutrient. Absorption of nutrients can be hampered by certain medical disorders. People who are malnourished lack food calories or nutrition. Underweight is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) that is 10-15% lower than the normal range for a person’s age and height.
Malnutrition can cause fatigue and weakness as a result of a lack of nutrients required for physical and cognitive well-being. Malnutrition’s complications are frequently more serious than the person’s physical appearance. The following are some of the effects of malnutrition:
- Increased risk of infection
- Decreased organ function
- Reduced muscle and tissue mass
- Increased risk of chest infection and respiratory failure.
- Breathing difficulties,
- Wounds heal more slowly
- Decreased bone mass
- Higher risk for hospitalization
Malnutrition is a serious problem that affects millions in the United States. Anyone can become malnourished, but it is more common in people who have long-term health conditions that affect appetite, weight, or how well nutrients are absorbed by the gut.
The best way to avoid malnutrition is to eat a healthy, balanced diet. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, dairy products, and protein sources should all be part of your daily diet. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans contains more information on the types of foods you should include in your diet and how to create the right balance between them. Consult your doctor if you have a health problem that puts you at risk for dietary deficiencies or malnutrition. You may require supplements or have more specialized dietary needs.