Malnutrition and Consequences
Learn to spot the signs
Malnutrition can affect everyone
We often only notice inadequate nutrition when a skirt suddenly becomes too loose or a belt no longer holds our trousers up properly. Tiredness, lethargy and stress can also be indications of deficiencies. Inadequate nutrition often happens gradually.
Any diet that does not cover our nutritional requirements bears the risk of poor nutrition. Even in the industrialised countries, inadequate nutrition and deficiencies of some nutrients are widespread.
Who are at increased risk?
Elderly people living
alone or in care homes
People with neurological
conditions such as
dementia or Parkinson's disease
Adults after a stroke
People with problems chewing or
swallowing, loss of appetite or
immobility, psychological stress or
depression, a changed sense of taste,
taking certain medications
What are some of the warning signs?
Unintentional weight
loss in the past 3-6 months
Feeling tired all the time
Weak muscles
Low mood levels
Increase in illness
or infections
