Malnutrition is a condition that happens when people do not get enough nutrition from the food they eat. This may result from a poor appetite, or a disease that requires more nutrients than their bodies are taking in.
Malnutrition can affect people of all ages, of all body sizes, and in all care settings. People with some or all of the following can be at a higher risk: There are many malnutrition risk factors that put them at risk.
Medical factors:
In children:
In adults:
Everyone has a role in addressing malnutrition, whether you are a patient, health-care provider, family member or care partner for someone who may be at risk. Often, small changes in daily habits can make a big impact on how well a person eats.
Take action using Tools to Address Malnutrition.