So it’s that time again.
When we show our DEPENDABLE brand of care and support.
As we start Malnutrition Awareness Week, here is our gentle reminder as we move malnutrition from awareness to ACTION.
Malnutrition Symptoms
Weight loss is one prevalent symptom of malnutrition, according to the NLM.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, malnutrition can also cause changes in the skin, such as dryness, rashes, and bruising easily. It can also cause aching joints, a compromised immune system, and listlessness.
Malnutrition can be brought on by:
receiving insufficient nourishment.
releasing nutrients more quickly than they are being replaced
an unhealthy diet
taking excessive amounts of dietary supplements or vitamins
Malnutrition Treatment
This condition is typically treated using a two-pronged strategy.
1. Replace Missing Nutrients
People need to eat a well-balanced diet to fight malnutrition.
According to the Merck Manual, undernutrition necessitates consuming more calories.
Achieving this goal can be aided by eating multiple short, well-balanced meals each day.
Depending on the degree of malnutrition, nutritional supplements or liquid nutrition may be required.
In severe cases, hospitalization might be necessary.
2. Treat Underlying Conditions
If an underlying medical condition or medication causes malnutrition, it must be addressed to prevent ongoing loss of nutrients. Medical conditions ranging from Alzheimer’s disease to eating disorders can also lead to malnutrition, per the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine
Hey! It’s not only the children!
Individuals, particularly senior adults, are susceptible to malnutrition.
You might think of malnutrition as the result of not getting enough food. However, malnutrition can also happen to anyone not eating the correct kinds of nutrient-rich foods.
Medical conditions, drugs, disabilities, low income, and depression also exacerbate malnutrition, especially among elderly people.
Strategies to Avoid Malnourishment
Eat a variety of foods.
Don't drink beverages with added sugars.
Learn about different nutrients.
Adjust to your environment.
Find out how food assistance may help.
Let's move malnutrition from awareness to ACTION!
Disclaimer:
The information provided on the site is for educational purposes only, and does not substitute for professional medical advice.
Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you're seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.
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