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. But 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. So even in the industrialised countries, inadequate nutrition and deficiencies of some nutrients are widespread.
Who is at increased risk?
- Elderly people living alone or in care homes
- Adults after a stroke
- People with neurological conditions such as dementia or Parkinson's disease
- People with: problems chewing or swallowing, loss of appetite or immobility, psychological stress or depression, a changed sense of taste, medications
What are warning signs?
- Unintentional weight loss in the past 3 – 6 months
- Weak muscles
- Feeling tired all the time
- Low mood
- An increase in illness or infections
Read how John gets help
John often felt tired and lacking energy, and made excuses several times for not meeting up with his close friends. He was also struggling to keep on top of his garden. His friend Nancy still visited him regularly and recommended that he consulted his GP.
A lengthy conversation with the GP shed light for John about his age and frailty. He recognised the importance of regular, balanced nutrition for his health, his GP also prescribed John with Fresubin oral nutritional supplements to help regain his strength and energy. The GP also referred John to a Dietitian to be monitored.
