Malnutrition occurs when the body doesn’t get enough of the nutrients it needs. It can be an extremely serious – even life-threatening condition if left untreated.
Malnutrition isn’t always about not having enough food to eat – although that can certainly be a factor. It’s also a condition that often happens to elderly patients, especially those who live alone. Issues like mental decline, dental problems, medications, and food preparation challenges are all among the things that can lead to malnutrition.
If you’re a caregiver for someone experiencing malnutrition – or if you may be experiencing it yourself – there are a few symptoms to watch for and some things you can do to help prevent malnutrition.
Symptoms of Malnutrition
Malnutrition can affect how every organ system in the body functions and how a person recovers from an illness or injury. Additionally, the symptoms can mimic the symptoms of other conditions.
So, if you’re uncertain but suspect malnutrition is the problem, try to improve dietary intake and nutrition while also involving your medical provider for more information.
Some of the signs and symptoms of malnutrition – like unexplained weight loss or confusion – are noticeable when looking at or interacting with a malnourished person. Other symptoms – like loss of bone mass or reduced heart function – may require medical testing. Some symptoms include:
- Lack of appetite
- Difficulty eating
- Physical weakness
- Compromised immunity
- Confusion
- Depression
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Poor balance
- Loss of muscle mass
- Slow-healing wounds
- Weight loss
How to Avoid Malnutrition
There are a number of ways you can avoid malnourishment if you’re experiencing the effects of this condition, including eating a variety of meal options and adding nutritionals that are rich in protein to your diet. Or, if you’re a caregiver, you can apply this approach to fulfilling the dietary needs of the person who is under your care.
Always consult with a healthcare professional to get support and help if you or a loved one is suffering from malnutrition. In addition to working with your doctor, you can:
- Plan healthy meals that include fruits, vegetables, lean protein sources, and grains before shopping for groceries.
- Choose a variety of healthy snacks that are quick and easy to grab and eat – like fruit, yogurt, or protein shakes.
- Enhance the flavor of foods when preparing meals by adding spices and herbs to make food more appetizing.
- Have meal replacements on hand to enjoy on the days when you don’t feel like cooking.
- Consider adding food supplements – like protein shakes – to your daily diet to support your nutritional intake.
- Take dietary supplements – like a daily multivitamin or specific supplements as recommended by your doctor or a nutritionist – to make sure your body gets the vitamins and minerals it needs.
Whether you’re a caregiver taking care of someone who lives alone, or living alone yourself and you want to maintain your health, good nutrition is vital.
Our collection of nutritionals and dietary supplements can offer the dietary support you need to help the person you’re caring for stay healthy. Check out Simply Medical today!