How to Prevent Malnutrition and Spot Symptoms

Malnutrition, or the lack of proper nutrition, is often considered a condition that is only prominent in populations with food scarcity, leaving vulnerable individuals without reliable sources of nutrition.

However, malnutrition is also a concern in all areas of the world including in the U.S. For instance, the Nutrition and Aging Resource Center estimates that up to 1 in 2 older adults is at risk for malnutrition.

But how do you prevent malnutrition? And what are some of the early symptoms?

Preventing Malnutrition

The first step to preventing malnutrition is to understand that the condition impacts people of all sizes and is not always treated or prevented by simply eating more.

The National Council on Aging (NCA) says that malnutrition can be the result of many factors, including reduced appetite, poor dental health, depression, living alone and much more.

There are many options to prevent malnutrition, but the NCA has five options or steps that you should consider as you get older:

1. Make smart food choices by ensuring you are eating a well-balanced diet that includes foods high in key nutrients like protein and fiber. EvergreenHealth's nutrition counselors can help you create a healthy diet plan that works for you.
2. Try an oral nutrition supplement, which is similar to a daily vitamin supplement, to help you get additional nutrients that you may not be getting enough of through food alone.
3. Maintain your oral health as poor gum or dental health can limit your ability to eat well or eat particular foods with important nutrients.
4. Reach out to your primary care provider if you are experiencing unintentional weight loss, loss of appetite or any problems impacting your eating.
5. Get help with grocery shopping, preparing meals or affording certain foods. You can ask a friend or family member to help you shop or cook, reach out to organizations like Meals on Wheels to see about having food delivered to you or sign up for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to supplement your monthly food budget.

For children, it's important parents and guardians take an active role in developing healthy eating habits and provide nutritious meals. Creating healthy eating habits early in a child's development sets them up for their future.

Spotting Malnutrition

Malnutrition can have severe and even fatal impacts when left untreated. In children and infants, malnutrition can lead to delayed growth both cognitively and physically, and older adults can experience slower recovery from wounds and illnesses, higher risk for broken bones and impaired organ function.

The National Library of Medicine says symptoms from malnutrition can vary depending on the cause as well as whether you're experiencing an overall deficiency in nutrients or a specific deficiency. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Weight loss
• Short attention span
• Irritability
• Lack of interest in food

If malnutrition and related symptoms or conditions go untreated, it can lead to mental or physical disabilities as well as illness and possibly death.

You should contact your primary care provider about the risk of malnutrition and about any changes in your or your child's ability to function.

If you or a loved one experience fainting, lack of menstruation, lack of physical growth or rapid hair loss, you should contact your care provider.