Malnutrition

Also known as: malnourishment.

What is malnutrition?

When children are not getting the necessary nutrients and calories from the diet that they need for daily functioning and growth, this is known as malnutrition. It can have many consequences, often severe.

What causes malnutrition?

Malnutrition can occur as a result of not eating enough, excessive loss of nutrients or from eating a poor diet that doesn’t provide enough of certain nutrients. Some medical conditions can also cause malnutrition, even if the diet is adequate.

What are the symptoms of malnutrition?

Symptoms can vary based on the nutrients that are missing from the diet. Dizziness, fatigue, and weight loss are common symptoms of many types of malnutrition.

What are malnutrition care options? 

Dietary changes or supplements are common treatments for malnutrition. If an underlying medical condition is leading to malnutrition, treating that condition can often help.


Reviewed by: Shifra A Koyfman, MD

This page was last updated on: March 16, 2020 10:36 AM