We can effectively combat malnutrition by encouraging balanced diets, bolstering healthcare systems, and educating the public.
Malnutrition means “bad nourishment” and includes all conditions resulting from taking too little, too much, or an unbalance of nutrients. The consequence of malnutrition, both from undernutrition and overnutrition, is staggering in its contribution to the overall risk of disease and premature death.
- Malnutrition comes in several forms, and several health problems can result: Protein-energy malnutrition, a common issue among many developing nations, gives rise to conditions such as Kwashiorkor and Marasmus. Stunting, severe wasting and weakened immunity, along with increased susceptibility to infections and resulting morbidities/mortalities, are some of the most extreme manifestations of undernutrition. Vitamin and mineral deficiency can cause diseases like anaemia, scurvy, rickets, etc.
- Alternatively, overnutrition, which is more present in the developed world, has different challenges: If eating more than the optimal level of calories and an unhealthy displacement toward certain foods increases the risk of obesity, then obesity is a predecessor to diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases (CVD), kidney failure, liver issues such as cirrhosis and gallbladder issues. These are chronic conditions in most cases and can severely impact the quality of living, escalating the cost across all expenditure structures.
Child Malnutrition: Indian Experience
Malnutrition can be prevented by educating mothers about food nutrition and hygiene, immunization and breastfeeding, and weaning practices. To remind you, 36% of children under five are stunted, 19 % are wasted, 32% are underweight, and 3% are overweight (National Institute of Nutrition).
“Underlying causes include a high level of economic disparity, where 74% of our population cannot afford an adequate diet and across South Africa, 39% is below the nutrient adequacy for activity,” said Labadarios.
Wellness Plan: A Path To Resolution
As mentioned earlier, several aims should be considered to improve malnutrition, including prevention and cure. The first is a healthy diet that affects the ability to keep a healthy body. Community-based care programs can assist the public in making healthier eating decisions, such as increasing the sugar and oils they can access. Indeed, a solid healthcare system that includes immunization, detection and treatment of diseases and infections, oral rehydration, and routine deworming will assist in preventing malnutrition. Breast milk alone for the first half of a year of life, followed by continued breastfeeding during the first 15 to 18 months, is minimally required for children’s nourishment and growth.
Conclusion
All forms of malnutrition are serious public health issues with far-reaching effects. We can effectively combat malnutrition by encouraging balanced diets, bolstering healthcare systems, and educating the public. Doing so can improve health outcomes and quality of life everywhere.
Credit: Dr. Imran Patel, thehealthsite.com