According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) nearly 15 percent of American households are food insecure. People who are chronically malnourished lack the nutrients needed for proper health and development and those individuals are more likely to get sick. Chronic hunger and malnutrition can cause significant health problems.
“Malnutrition affects people of every age and every race,” says Summit Health Registered Dietitian Madalyn Vasquez. “Children and teens need proper nutrients for normal growth and development, but older people need to be properly nourished for energy and disease prevention.”
What Is Malnutrition?
Malnutrition occurs when there is an imbalance (deficiencies or excesses) in an individual’s nutrient intake. Forms of malnutrition include undernutrition and micronutrient-related malnutrition.
"Malnutrition in all forms can cause catastrophic health issues," says Vasquez. “And it’s a serious worldwide issue affecting billions of people in hundreds of countries – even this one.”
Undernutrition
Undernutrition, also known as acute malnutrition, is when someone doesn't get enough food to sustain themselves. What results is called 'wasting.' Wasting refers to someone who is a low weight for their height and typically indicates severe and sudden weight loss due to lack of food or an infectious disease.
Children and adults who experience any aspects of underweight malnutrition are at further risk for serious diseases, infections, and debilitating conditions. This includes pneumonia, edema, and even depression and anxiety. Additionally, children who experience these problems can have increased significant long-term mental and physical issues.
In 2011, undernutrition was a leading cause of death in children, contributing to an intimidating 45 percent mortality rate. Undernutrition affected 165 million children that year alone.
Stunting is another form of undernutrition that is characterized by low height for age. Stunting is typically a result of chronic undernutrition due to frequent illness, lack of childhood feeding and care in early stages of life, or poor socioeconomic conditions.
Micronutrient-related malnutrition
Micronutrient deficiencies refer to an inadequacy in vitamin and mineral intake. Deficiencies of iron and zinc, typically found in meat, fish, and various fruits and nuts are particularly common.
The Malnutrition and Obesity Connection
In disadvantaged communities where individuals are unable to access nutritious food, excessive consumption of calorie-rich foods can result in weight gain or even obesity.
And contrary to what one would expect, despite ample food consumption, overweight or obese individuals may experience symptoms of malnutrition due to lack of proper nutrients in the foods they are consuming.
Malnutrition Warning Signs
Some common malnutrition signs and symptoms to look for include:
- Increased weight loss
- Lack of muscle mass
- Swollen stomach (called Kwashiorkor)
- Fatigue and low energy levels
- Lack of growth and low body weight (in children)
The Cause of Malnutrition
Malnutrition can be caused by several things, including poor diet, dietary restrictions due to medical conditions, and even alcoholism.
While malnutrition can affect anyone, there are a few factors that set populations apart. For example, those suffering from chronic conditions and people recovering from serious medical issues are more prone to malnutrition. And as mentioned previously, poverty and lack of access to healthy foods is also a contributing factor.
Malnutrition Treatment
If left untreated, malnutrition can stunt growth, develop into heart disease, and promote mental health issues. Effective treatments for malnourished individuals include detailed diet plans and nutritional supplements.
"If someone, however, experiences a mild case of vitamin deficiency, we can administer an effective diet plan to address the nutritional issues present,” says Vasquez. “We then move forward to focus on building back their body weight and their overall health. We also equip our malnourished patients with the tools to work towards a prosperous and healthy future on their own. It all comes down to helping patients achieve meaningful results.”
Nutrition experts can also help people learn how to get a balanced healthy diet on a budget.
Final Thoughts on Malnutrition
Malnutrition is a widespread and severe problem affecting billions of people worldwide. Summit Health nutrition services, led by expert dietitians, aims to educate patients and the public about the dangers of malnutrition, and our experts work to address malnourishment in all forms. Whether it's a simple change in diet or time spent educating patients on proper nutrition and its many benefits, we work to combat malnutrition through education, prevention tactics, and more.