Malnutrition is a global health issue that affects millions of people, for both developing and developed countries. It refers to the condition in which an individual’s diet does not provide adequate nutrients for healthy growth and development, noting this may have nothing to do with overall energy intake.. Malnutrition can be classified into two main types: undernutrition and overnutrition, with this paper briefly exploring the causes, effects, and solutions for both.
Undernutrition
Undernutrition occurs when there is a deficiency of essential nutrients and is often caused by:
- Education: When it comes to the western diet, undernutrition often propagates from not understanding the value to human health that only a balanced diet delivers. Regardless of intolerances, allergies or taste preference, sourcing all nutrients and from what foods is vital to human health.
- Food insecurity: Limited access to sufficient and nutritious food due to poverty, natural disasters, or conflict can lead to undernutrition.
- Poor dietary practices: Lack of knowledge about balanced diets and reliance on low-nutrient foods can result in inadequate nutrient intake.
- Health issues: Chronic illnesses, infections, inflammation and other gastrointestinal problems can impair nutrient absorption and utilization.
Overnutrition
Overnutrition, on the other hand, is the result of excessive intake of energy, nutrients and even water, leading to conditions such as obesity, toxicity, hyponatremia and other related diseases. The primary causes include:
- Myths and legends: Celebrities, ‘Doctors’ and other self-proclaimed experts, who don’t hold an academic credential within the realm of nutrition, are amongst the main contributors towards false eating promotions, fads and dangerous food trends. See Human Nutritions ‘The Spruiker’ section in our about us page for more information. Trust only accredited Nutritionists for your food and nutrition advice.
- Unhealthy Eating Habits: Consumption of high-energy from high-processed foods like fast food and sugary drinks contribute to overnutrition.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity combined with high-calorie diets can lead to weight gain and obesity. However, nutrition comes first as trying to ‘out train a bad diet’ is not only unsustainable, but often outright dangerous.
- Socioeconomic Factors: Affluence and availability of unhealthy food options can increase the risk of overnutrition.
Health consequences
Malnutrition has severe health implications, regardless of its type. For undernutrition, common effects include:
- Stunted growth: Children who are undernourished will experience impaired physical and cognitive development.
- Weakened immune system: Lack of essential nutrients will reduce the body’s ability to fight infections, leading to increased morbidity and mortality.
Overnutrition, on the other hand, can result in:
- Obesity: Excessive weight gain increases the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers.
- Metabolic disorders: High intake of unhealthy foods can lead to metabolic syndromes, affecting overall health and longevity. See Human Nutritions case study on ‘metabolic disease nutrition’ for more information.
- Food waste: An affluent and abundant society can view food as a commodity, not a precious resource. Pre-packaged nourishing foods are a useful tool, but not the solution if reducing packaging waste into our land, streams and oceans is a legacy priority.
Solutions to Malnutrition
To combat undernutrition, the following measures can be implemented:
- Improving food security: Ensuring access to sufficient and nutritious food through agricultural development, food aid programs, and economic support.
- Nutrition education: Promoting awareness about Human Nutrition and healthy eating habits, particularly in vulnerable communities.
- Healthcare interventions: Providing robust and effective government programs to address health issues that impair nutrient availability, absorption and utilisation.
Effective strategies to reduce overnutrition include:
- Promoting healthy eating: Encouraging the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing intake of high-processed foods.
- Increasing physical activity: Advocating for regular exercise and active lifestyles to maintain a healthy weight.
- Policy measures: Implementing regulations to scrutinise the marketing of unhealthy foods and promote healthier food options. Nutrition education for all primary and secondary school curriculums.
Conclusion
Malnutrition, in both its forms, poses significant challenges to global health and development. Addressing the root causes and implementing effective solutions requires a multi-faceted approach involving governments, communities, and individuals. By improving food security, promoting whole food eating habits, and encouraging physical activity, humans can work towards a healthier environment and a nourished world.