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Malnutrition can arise due to increased energy or protein requirements such as after surgery, or decreased food intake due to poor appetite or nausea. The risk of malnutrition increases if you are underweight or if you lose weight unintentionally. Symptoms of malnutrition include weight loss, lack of appetite, tiredness, lack of concentration, feelings of coldness, depression, muscle loss, reduced immune function and longer healing time for wounds.
Nutrient deficiencies that can originate include iron, folate, vitamin B12, vitamin D and calcium. Although dietary assessment is important, the cause of the deficiency must first be explored by your medical team. Eating nourishing food will improve your appetite and reduce the risk of falls. It may also benefit your immune system, allows for wounds to heal quickly and may improve energy levels as well as quality of life.
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Breathlessness
- Headaches and/or dizziness
- Infections
- Loss of appetite
- Poor concentration
- Low mood or depression
- Weight loss
- Brittle nails and/or hair loss
- Stunted or defective bone growth and failure to thrive in children
