malnutricí

Malnutricí, also known as malnutrition, is a condition that arises from an imbalance between the nutrients your body needs and the nutrients it receives. This imbalance can manifest in two primary ways: undernutrition, where the body doesn't get enough calories, protein, or micronutrients, and overnutrition, where there is an excess intake of calories and certain fats, leading to overweight and obesity. Undernutrition can result in various issues, including wasting (low weight-for-height), stunting (low height-for-age), and underweight (low weight-for-age). Micronutrient deficiencies, often referred to as "hidden hunger," occur when there's a lack of essential vitamins and minerals, even if calorie intake seems adequate.

Malnutrition affects people of all ages but is particularly devastating for children, pregnant women, and the elderly. In children, it can impair physical and cognitive development, weaken the immune system, and increase the risk of illness and death. For pregnant women, it can lead to poor birth outcomes, such as low birth weight babies and increased risk of maternal mortality. In older adults, malnutrition can exacerbate existing health conditions, slow recovery from illness, and reduce overall quality of life.

The causes of malnutrition are multifaceted and often interconnected. Poverty, food insecurity, inadequate access to healthcare, poor sanitation and hygiene, and lack of education about nutrition all contribute to its prevalence. Certain diseases and medical conditions can also affect nutrient absorption or increase nutritional needs, further increasing the risk of malnutrition. Addressing malnutrition requires a comprehensive approach that includes improving food security, promoting healthy diets, strengthening healthcare systems, and implementing public health interventions.