Malnutrition

教育知识 2026-02-15 18:25:38 谢逸榕

【Malnutrition】Malnutrition refers to a condition that occurs when the body does not receive the proper amount of nutrients, either due to an imbalance in the diet or the inability to absorb nutrients properly. It can result from undernutrition, overnutrition, or a deficiency in specific vitamins and minerals. Malnutrition is a global public health issue affecting millions of people, particularly in developing countries, but it also occurs in developed nations due to poor dietary habits and lifestyle choices.

Summary

Malnutrition is a broad term encompassing both undernutrition and overnutrition. It affects physical and mental development, weakens the immune system, and increases the risk of diseases. The causes include inadequate food intake, poor diet quality, disease, and socioeconomic factors. Prevention involves improving access to nutritious food, education on healthy eating, and healthcare support.

Table: Types and Effects of Malnutrition

Type of Malnutrition	Description	Common Causes	Effects
Undernutrition	Lack of essential nutrients such as calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals.	Poor diet, poverty, food insecurity, limited access to food.	Stunted growth, weakened immunity, increased risk of infections, developmental delays.
Overnutrition	Excess intake of certain nutrients, especially fats, sugars, and calories.	High-calorie diets, sedentary lifestyles, processed foods.	Obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome.
Micronutrient Deficiency	Lack of specific vitamins or minerals like iron, vitamin A, iodine, or zinc.	Poor diet, lack of variety, poor absorption.	Anemia, night blindness, goiter, impaired cognitive function, weakened immunity.
Wasting	Severe weight loss due to insufficient calorie intake.	Acute starvation, illness, conflict, disaster.	Rapid weight loss, muscle wasting, increased mortality risk.
Stunting	Chronic undernutrition leading to short stature for age.	Long-term poor nutrition, repeated infections.	Impaired physical and cognitive development, lower educational achievement.

Malnutrition remains a significant challenge worldwide, requiring coordinated efforts from governments, healthcare providers, and communities to ensure access to balanced and nutritious diets. Education, policy changes, and improved healthcare are essential in combating this complex issue.