What is Malnutrition?
Malnutrition is a condition resulting from an inadequate or imbalanced intake of nutrients. It covers both undernutrition and overnutrition, each with distinct causes and health effects.
Undernutrition
A deficiency in nutrient intake, leading to inadequate growth, development, or overall health.
- Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM): includes Kwashiorkor (protein deficiency despite adequate calories, causing swelling and liver enlargement) and Marasmus (severe deficiency in both protein and calories, causing severe weight loss and muscle wasting).
- Micronutrient deficiencies: Vitamin A deficiency (night blindness), iron deficiency (anaemia, fatigue), iodine deficiency (goitre and developmental issues), and calcium deficiency (weak bones, rickets in children, osteoporosis in adults).
Overnutrition
An excessive intake of nutrients, leading to imbalance and health issues.
- Overweight and obesity: from excessive calorie intake, particularly from high-fat and high-sugar foods.
- Micronutrient excess: too much of a vitamin or mineral can cause toxicity — for example, Vitamin A toxicity can cause liver damage, and iron overload can damage the liver and heart.
Causes of Malnutrition
- Inadequate food intake: food insecurity or poor dietary choices.
- Health conditions: chronic diseases or infections that affect nutrient absorption.
- Socioeconomic factors: poverty and lack of nutrition education.
- Cultural and behavioural factors: dietary practices or eating disorders.
- Environmental factors: climate change or natural disasters disrupting food supply.
Symptoms and Effects
Undernutrition: weight loss, fatigue, stunted growth in children, impaired cognitive function, and increased risk of infection.
Overnutrition: excess weight, high blood pressure, and increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and joint problems.
Prevention and Management
- Balanced, diverse diet with appropriate portion control.
- Nutritional education and community programmes.
- Regular health check-ups and medical treatment for underlying conditions.
- Improved food security — access to affordable, nutritious food.
- Cultural and behavioural support, including help for eating disorders.
