mangelernährt

Mangelernährt, or undernourished, describes a state in which a person’s intake or absorption of energy and nutrients is insufficient to meet basic needs. It can arise from inadequate dietary intake, impaired digestion or absorption, increased requirements due to illness, or ongoing losses. Clinically it is categorized as acute malnutrition (rapid weight loss and wasting) or chronic malnutrition (long-term depletion of body stores, with growth impairment in children).

Signs and assessment: In adults, signs include unintended weight loss, reduced muscle mass, weakness, fatigue, and delayed wound healing; edema can occur with certain protein-energy deficiencies. In children, growth faltering is common. Screening and diagnosis rely on anthropometry (BMI, weight-for-height, mid-upper-arm circumference) and validated tools such as the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) or Subjective Global Assessment (SGA). Laboratory tests may show micronutrient deficiencies.

Causes and risk factors: Inadequate intake due to poverty, illness, or eating disorders; disease-related malnutrition from cancer, COPD, kidney disease, or infections; malabsorption syndromes; treatments that raise energy needs or reduce intake; older age and social isolation; and hospitalization.

Consequences: Malnutrition increases infection risk, slows recovery, prolongs hospital stays, and raises mortality. It also impairs physical and cognitive function and quality of life.

Management: Treatment aims to correct deficiencies, treat underlying illness, and preserve lean body mass. It includes optimizing oral intake with energy- and protein-rich foods and supplements, enteral feeding when needed, and parenteral nutrition in select cases. Regular nutritional assessment and a multidisciplinary approach are recommended, along with prevention strategies for at-risk groups.