Malnutrition

Protein and energy malnutrition and deficiencies of specific micronutrients including iron zinc and vitamins increase susceptibility to infection.

Malnutrition. Malnutrition is the condition that develops when the body is deprived of vitamins minerals and other nutrients it needs to maintain healthy tissues and organ function. Malnutrition increases the risk of infection and infectious disease and moderate malnutrition weakens every part of the immune system. Lacking a vitamin or other nutrient is called a deficiency. Nutrients include protein fat carbohydrates vitamins and minerals.

It can lead to serious health issues including stunted growth eye problems diabetes and heart disease. In reality malnutrition is often caused by a combination of physical social and psychological issues. Malnutrition is the lack of adequate nutrition either as a result of imbalances deficiencies or excesses in a person s intake of food and nutrients. Sometimes malnutrition is very mild and causes no symptoms.

Other times it can be so severe that the damage it does to the body is permanent even though you survive. What increases my risk of malnutrition. The causes of malnutrition might seem straightforward too little food or a diet lacking in nutrients. Malnutrition occurs in people who are either undernourished or overnourished.

Undernutrition is a consequence of consuming too few essential nutrients or using or excreting them more rapidly than they can be replaced. Malnutrition refers to deficiencies excesses or imbalances in a person s intake of energy and or nutrients. Malnutrition refers to getting too little or too much of certain nutrients. Malnutrition occurs when you do not get enough calories or nutrients to keep you healthy.

The term malnutrition covers 2 broad groups of conditions. So do women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This can be due to eating too little eating an improper diet or having a medical condition that results in the body s being unable to use food and nutrients. You may develop malnutrition if you lack a single vitamin in your diet.

Not eating the right amount or kinds of food. Infants young children and teenagers need additional nutrients. For example it is a major risk factor in the onset of active tuberculosis.