'''Malnutrition''' is a general term for the medical condition in a person or animal caused by an unbalanced diet—either too little or too much food, or a diet missing one or more important
nutrients.
Most commonly, malnourished people or animals either do not have enough
calories in their
diet, or are eating a diet that lacks
protein,
vitamins, or trace
minerals. Medical problems arising from malnutrition are commonly referred to as deficiency diseases.
Scurvy is a well-known and now rare form of malnutrition, in which the victim lacks
vitamin C.
Common forms of malnutrition include protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) and micronutrient malnutrition. PEM refers to inadequate availability or
absorption of
energy and proteins in the body.
Micronutrient malnutrition refers to inadequate availability some essential nutrients such as
vitamins and
trace elements that are required by the body in small quantities. Micronutrient deficiencies lead to a variety of diseases and impair normal functioning of the body. Deficiency in micronutrients such as Vitamin A reduces the capacity of the body to resist diseases. Deficiency in
iron,
iodine and vitamin A is widely prevalent and represent major a
public health challenge.
See also
External links
- Reports on World Nutrition Situation The annual reports prepared by UN Standing Committee on Nutrition contain detailed information on common challenges, extent of malnutrition, efforts being taken to address them, and a wealth of other useful information.
Category:Malnutrition
de:Mangelernährung
fr:Malnutrition
ja:栄養失調