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Malnutrition: meaning, definitions and examples

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malnutrition

 

[mælˌnjuˈtrɪʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

health

Malnutrition is a condition that results from eating a diet in which one or more nutrients are either not enough or are too much such that the diet causes health problems. It can lead to various health issues, including stunted growth, weakened immune system, and even death.

Synonyms

nutritional deficiency, poor nutrition, undernourishment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
malnutrition

Used in a broad medical or scientific context to describe a condition caused by an inadequate diet or an inability to absorb nutrients. It can have both negative and neutral connotations, but is primarily used in a health and nutrition context.

  • The child was diagnosed with malnutrition due to a significant lack of essential vitamins and minerals
  • Malnutrition can lead to serious health problems if not addressed promptly
undernourishment

Used to describe a more severe or chronic lack of sufficient food intake, often in humanitarian or social contexts. This term usually carries a strong negative connotation and is associated with poverty and food scarcity.

  • The refugee camp had high rates of undernourishment due to limited food supplies
  • Undernourishment is a serious issue in many developing countries
poor nutrition

Used in everyday language to refer to an overall low-quality diet. Often used in discussions about diet, lifestyle, and general health, it can carry a more negative connotation and is less formal.

  • Eating fast food every day can lead to poor nutrition
  • Poor nutrition during childhood can affect growth and development
nutritional deficiency

Common in medical or general health contexts to refer specifically to the lack of essential nutrients in a person's diet. This term is often used when addressing specific vitamins or minerals that are missing.

  • Vitamin D nutritional deficiency is common in areas with limited sunlight
  • Iron nutritional deficiency can cause anemia and fatigue

Examples of usage

  • Children in developing countries often suffer from malnutrition due to lack of access to nutritious food.
  • Severe malnutrition can have long-lasting effects on a person's health.
  • Malnutrition is a major public health concern worldwide.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The prefix 'mal-' comes from Latin, meaning 'bad'. This highlights the harmful aspect of poor nutrition.
  • The term has been documented in health literature since the 1930s, especially in studies of food scarcity post-World War II.

Global Health

  • According to the World Health Organization, malnutrition affects nearly one in three people globally during their lifetime.
  • It manifests in various forms, including undernutrition, overnutrition, and micronutrient deficiency, making it a complex issue.
  • The effects of malnutrition can lead to lifelong health problems, including stunted growth in children and increased risk of diseases.

Economics

  • Countries with high levels of malnutrition often face economic challenges due to a less productive workforce.
  • Malnutrition contributes to higher healthcare costs, as those affected require more medical assistance over their lifetimes.

Nutrition Science

  • Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients is essential to combat malnutrition.
  • The body needs carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals to function correctly, and a lack of one can cause malnutrition.

Psychology

  • Deficiencies in proper nutrition can affect mood and cognitive functions, leading to issues like anxiety and depression.
  • Research suggests that certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, play a critical role in brain health, directly linking nutrition to mental well-being.

Translations

Translations of the word "malnutrition" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desnutrição

🇮🇳 कुपोषण

🇩🇪 Mangelernährung

🇮🇩 malnutrisi

🇺🇦 недоїдання

🇵🇱 niedożywienie

🇯🇵 栄養失調

🇫🇷 malnutrition

🇪🇸 desnutrición

🇹🇷 yetersiz beslenme

🇰🇷 영양실조

🇸🇦 سوء التغذية

🇨🇿 podvýživa

🇸🇰 podvýživa

🇨🇳 营养不良

🇸🇮 podhranjenost

🇮🇸 vannæring

🇰🇿 аштық

🇬🇪 მალნუტრიცია

🇦🇿 qida çatışmazlığı

🇲🇽 desnutrición

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,589, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.