Malnutrition

Malnutrition is a serious health condition that occurs when:

  • A person’s diet lacks essential nutrients for proper body function
  • The body cannot properly absorb or utilize nutrients from food
    It affects individuals of all ages and can stem from poor diet, illness, or a combination of both.

Types of Malnutrition

  1. Undernutrition (most common in developing countries)
    • Wasting (low weight-for-height)
    • Stunting (low height-for-age in children)
    • Underweight (low weight-for-age)
  2. Micronutrient Deficiencies
    • Lack of vital vitamins/minerals (iron, vitamin A, iodine, etc.)
  3. Overnutrition
    • Obesity and diet-related diseases (common in developed nations)

Effects of Malnutrition

  • Children:
    • Impaired physical/cognitive development
    • Weakened immune system → higher infection risk
  • Adults:
    • Reduced work capacity
    • Increased risk of chronic diseases (diabetes, heart disease)
  • Elderly:
    • Muscle loss, slower recovery from illness

Causes of Malnutrition

  • Poverty/lack of access to nutritious food
  • Poor dietary diversity
  • Digestive disorders (celiac disease, Crohn’s)
  • Mental health issues (eating disorders, depression)
  • Food insecurity (famine, conflict)

Solutions & Prevention

✅ Food-Based Approaches:

  • Promoting nutrient-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, proteins)
  • Food fortification programs (e.g., iodized salt)

✅ Healthcare Strategies:

  • Early screening and intervention
  • Therapeutic foods for severe cases

✅ Education & Support:

  • Nutrition counseling
  • Community feeding programs
  • Breastfeeding promotion for infants

Why It Matters

Addressing malnutrition is critical for:

  • Healthy child development
  • Reducing disease burden
  • Improving life expectancy and quality of life
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Mona Norouzi Natanzi

Mona Norouzi Natanzi

Nutritionist & Dietitian

Dr. Mona Norouzi Natanzi is a distinguished nutrition specialist with over 15 years of clinical experience in Tehran, holding a PhD in Nutritional Sciences. […]

Iran, Tehran