Malnutrition

Introduction
Many times it is noticed that children of the same age are not developing and growing as other children of their age. This happens due to malnutrition. This is the condition when a person is not getting the right amount of nutrition which is desired by the body. This lack of nutrition includes lack of vitamins, minerals and proteins etc. not only children but adults can also suffer from malnutrition in any part of their life. Inadequate intake of food leads to malnutrition which can further affect the function of the body. It can be caused by eating very less or having an imbalanced diet. Any nutrients, if missed out of diet, can cause malnutrition. If malnutrition gets to extreme it can be life threatening.

Alternative Names
Malnutrition can also be called as inadequate nutrition.

Causes
Human body at every stage of life needs nutrient and body building substances such as vitamins and minerals which are provided to the body by having them in your daily diet but if the diet you are having is not appropriate it can have affects on your body growth and physical appearance. Most commonly it is caused if the diet lacks in protein and carbohydrates. Protein is very important in this regards as it is the main constituent of the human body. In every phase of our life we need constant energy to maintain the human activity, if this supply is not up to the required level the person may suffer from malnutrition. Lack of calcium can lead to weaker bones and short height. Improper timing of diet is also a cause of malnutrition. Over eating is also not a solution of it; instead it can have worse effects. Eating habits should be well balanced other wise the body may be malnourished. Some times if the intake is less, it can also cause malnutrition, and also sticking to the same diet can also cause malnutrition. Sometimes the causes are the natural disasters or poverty which can not be avoided by the person. For example people of Somalia and Iraq.

Risk Factors

Young infants and their mothers are susceptible to malnutrition.
People who are suffering from diarrhea.
Men and women of all ages are equally at risk of developing malnutrition.
People with poor appetite can also suffer from malnutrition.
Girls who are usually trying to get thin in order to look slim become a victim of malnutrition.

Symptoms & Signs
The symptoms may vary from person to person

Generally loss of weight is a prominent sign of malnutrition.
Dizziness is felt throughout the day.
Appearance of dark circles around the eyes.
Bleeding from gums.
Weak bones.
Immune responses are also affected.
Children at younger age when suffer from malnutrition, they may stop growing or their growth rate is less than the normal rate of growth.

Diagnosis
A doctor can easily diagnose malnutrition by symptoms and signs. Questioning about the daily diet of the patient may also be helpful. Blood test can further indicate the extent of malnutrition. Being under weight is the most prominent factor in diagnosing malnutrition.

Prevention
The best prevention to avoid malnutrition is to have a proper diet. It should neither be under nutrition nor over nutrition. Include all sorts of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Maintain the normal weight in order to be saved from malnutrition.

Treatment
The treatment can be home care and use of medicines. There are several supplements available for specific deficiency of vitamin, minerals, proteins and carbohydrates. Plan a well diet for the whole month with your doctor.

Primary Natural Supplements
Herbs

Gingseng
Alfafa

Vitamins

Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Vitamin B complex

Quasi vitamins

Boiflavonoids

Minerals

Zinc
Calcium

Secondary Natural Supplements
Vitamins

Vitamins D
Vitamin E

Quasi vitamin

Co-Q10

Minerals

Iron

Dietary Guidelines

Diet plays a very important role in treating malnutrition.
All sorts of vegetables and fruits should be apart of your diet.
Drinking juices of fresh fruits are best source of getting energy in less time.
Whole grain, brown rice and brown bread should also be eaten.
Take moderate amount of salts and sugar.

Home Care Suggestions

Maintain the ideal weight, don’t go for looks.
If you are suffering from protein deficiency, you should eat eggs which are the best source of protein.
Drink milk to overcome the deficiency of calcium.
Implement food aid programmes in your daily life routine.

Mind/Body Considerations
Exercise daily so that your appetite remains as normal and you will not suffer from loss of apetite. Keep your living healthy and simple.


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