Underfeeding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฝ๏ธ
underfeeding
[หสndษrหfiหdษชล ]
Definition
nutritional deficiency
Underfeeding refers to the condition of providing insufficient food or nutrients to an individual, often leading to malnutrition or adverse health effects. This situation can occur in various contexts, including inadequate caloric intake among children, elderly individuals, or people with specific health conditions. Underfeeding is particularly concerning in populations facing food scarcity or in situations where dietary needs are not met due to economic or social factors. Chronic underfeeding can result in significant weight loss, weakened immunity, and developmental issues.
Synonyms
insufficient feeding, malnutrition, undernourishment.
Examples of usage
- Underfeeding can have devastating effects on children's growth.
- The elderly often experience underfeeding due to loss of appetite.
- Underfeeding a pet can lead to severe health problems.
- In times of famine, widespread underfeeding is a common tragedy.
Translations
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Origin of 'underfeeding'
The term 'underfeeding' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'under-' meaning insufficiently or below normal, and the verb 'feed', which originates from the Old English 'fฤdan', meaning to provide food, nourish, or support. The usage of 'underfeed' signifies the action of providing less food than necessary. The term has been increasingly recognized in discussions about nutrition, health disparities, and the importance of adequate dietary intake for growth and development. Over the years, the impacts of underfeeding have been studied in various fields, including medicine, social sciences, and public health, highlighting its significance in understanding both individual well-being and broader societal health issues. The concept has also been crucial in the context of global food security and humanitarian efforts.