Malnutrition is lack of proper nutrition caused by not having enough to eat, not having enough of the right things, or being unable to use the food that one does eat.
Malnutrition is caused by eating a diet in which nutrients are not enough or are too much such that it causes health problems.
Causes of Malnutrition-
- Poor Diet
- Disruption of ability to digest food or absorb nutrients
- Increased body's demand for energy
- Health Disorders can cause loss of appetite
- Some types of medication can increase risk of developing malnutrition
- Low Income or Poverty
- Due to an eating disorder Anorexia or behavioral or psychological condition
Malnutrition in children can lead to a number of health problems-
- Weight Loss
- Tiredness or Fatigue
- Loss of Strength
- Problems with Learning
- Weak Immune System
- Anemia
Prevention and Cure
The best way to prevent malnutrition is to eat a healthy, balanced diet. One needs to eat a variety of foods from the main food groups, including plenty of foods and vegetables.
Childhood malnutrition can be cured by giving the child additional nutrients to increase the intake of energy and protein. This may involve taking special supplements and eating foods high in energy and nutrients.
- Providing Heath Education to mothers about good nutrition
- Distribution of supplements like iron, folic acid and vitamin A
- Development of Low Cost Food
- Nutritional Education
- Family Planning and Birth Spacing
- Promotion of Breast Feeding
- Immunization
- Fortification of Food
- Periodic Nutrition Surveillance
- Early Diagnosis of any lag of growth
- Developing Supplementary Feeding Program during epidemics
- Regular deworming of school and preschool children
- Nutritional Rehabilitation Services
- Hospital Treatment
- Specific protein diet, eggs, milk, fresh foods
