According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), approximately “12.3 million American households remain food insecure – meaning that 1 in 8 households had difficulty at some time during the year in providing enough food for all their members.” Food insecurity is a major risk factor for malnutrition. Healthline defines malnutrition as “getting too little or too much of certain nutrients.”
Healthline explains that the signs and symptoms of malnutrition depends on the type, whether one is undernourished or over-nourished. The main symptom of overnutrition is obesity. Some symptoms of undernutrition are:
- Weight loss.
- Dry hair & skin
- Fatigue
- Delayed wound healing
- A swollen stomach
- Fatigue
There are serious long-term effects of malnutrition, such as heart disease and diabetes. Children are at risk for stunted growth when they are undernourished. Preventing malnutrition before it occurs is always best and that is done by maintaining a balanced diet. If you suspect that you may be exhibiting signs of malnutrition, discuss your treatment options with your healthcare provider immediately. To schedule an annual physical at any of our convenient Primary Medical Care Center community clinics, you may visit our website at www.primarymed.com, or call (305)751-1500 for our Miami-Dade clinic, or (954)289-0000 for our Broward clinic.
Source: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/malnutrition#prevention-and-treatment
https://www.feedingamerica.org/about-us/press-room/new-data