Alatoitumist

Alatoitumist is a condition defined by inadequate intake of energy and nutrients, leading to weight loss, weakness, and impaired function. In medical use it covers protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) and micronutrient deficiencies that arise from insufficient intake, poor absorption, or increased requirements. It remains a major global health issue, especially in settings with limited resources and among vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people with chronic illness.

Causes include food insecurity, poverty, chronic infections or diseases, malabsorption, eating disorders, and age-related factors. Risk is higher where calories or essential micronutrients are scarce or where illness both raises nutritional needs and reduces intake. Environmental and social determinants interact with personal health to shape risk.

Common forms are protein-energy malnutrition, including marasmus (severe energy deficiency with weight loss and muscle wasting) and kwashiorkor (inadequate protein intake with edema and metabolic disturbances), as well as deficiencies of micronutrients such as iron, vitamin A, iodine, zinc, and folate. Symptoms vary but can include weight loss, fatigue, edema, recurrent infections, hair and skin changes, and impaired growth in children. Diagnosis relies on anthropometric measurements (weight-for-height or BMI, mid-upper arm circumference), clinical signs, dietary history, and targeted laboratory tests; tests have variable sensitivity depending on context.

Management focuses on treating the underlying causes, stabilizing the patient, and providing appropriate nutritional rehabilitation. In severe cases, hospital-based care with careful refeeding and electrolyte monitoring is necessary to avoid refeeding complications. Long-term goals include restoring healthy weight, improving physical and cognitive function, and addressing ongoing food security and health needs.

Prevention emphasizes ensuring consistent, diverse diets, fortification and supplementation programs when needed, and early management of illnesses that affect nutrition. Public health surveillance helps identify at-risk groups and measure intervention impact.