Malnutrition

What is malnutrition?

Malnutrition refers to getting too little or too much of certain nutrients. It can lead to serious health issues, including stunted growth, eye problems, diabetes and heart disease. Some populations have a high risk of developing certain types of malnutrition depending on their environment, lifestyle and resources.

Under-nutrition

This type of malnutrition results from not getting enough protein, calories or micro-nutrients. It leads to low weight-for-height (wasting), height-for-age (stunting) and weight-for-age (underweight). People who are undernourished often have deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, especially iron, zinc, vitamin A and iodine. This can cause: Weight loss, Loss of fat and muscle mass, hollow cheeks and sunken eyes, a swollen stomach, dry hair and skin, delayed wound healing, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, depression and anxiety.

Some types of under-nutrition have signature effects.

• Kwashiorkor: a severe protein deficiency, causes fluid retention and a protruding abdomen. On the other hand, the condition marasmus, which results from severe calorie deficiency, leads to wasting and significant fat and muscle loss.
• Vitamin A deficiency: Dry eyes, night blindness, increased risk of infection.
• Zinc deficiency: Loss of appetite, stunted growth, delayed healing of wounds, hair loss, diarrhea.
• Iron deficiency: Impaired brain function, issues with regulating body temperature, stomach problems.
• Iodine deficiency: Enlarged thyroid glands (goiters), decreased production of thyroid hormone, growth and development issues

Over-nutrition

Over-consumption of certain nutrients, such as protein, calories or fat, can also lead to malnutrition. This usually results in overweight or obesity. It’s possible to be overweight or obese from excessive calorie consumption but not get enough vitamins and minerals at the same time. That’s because foods that contribute to over-nutrition, such as fried and sugary foods, tend to be high in calories and fat but low in other nutrients.

What causes malnutrition?

Common causes of malnutrition include:

• Food insecurity or a lack of access to sufficient and affordable food: Studies link food insecurity in both developing and developed nations to malnutrition.
• Conditions that cause malabsorption, such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease and bacterial overgrowth in the intestines, can cause malnutrition.
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol use can lead to inadequate intake of protein, calories and micro-nutrients.
• Mental health disorders: Depression and other mental health conditions can increase malnutrition risk. One study found that the prevalence of malnutrition was 4% higher in people with depression compared to healthy individuals.
• People living in developing countries or areas with limited access to food
• Individuals with increased nutrient needs, especially children and pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Older adults, particularly those who live alone or have disabilities
• People with issues that affect nutrient absorption

Prevention and Treatment

Research suggests that some of the most effective ways to prevent malnutrition include providing iron, zinc and iodine pills, food supplements and nutrition education to populations at risk of under-nutrition. In addition, interventions that encourage healthy food choices and physical activity for children and adults at risk of over-nutrition may help prevent overweight and obesity. Treating malnutrition involves more individualized approach involving a dietitian, a social worker, and a physician trained in managing the client eg, paediatrician, obstetrician