Malnutrition results when the body does not obtain the proper amounts or the right kinds of food. Malnutrition may occur in animals (including humans) as well as plants. When the body is in a state of malnutrition, it becomes susceptible to disease and infection.
Malnutrition may be caused by failure of the body to absorb the nutrients in proper food. A common example of this is the loss of food by chronic or recurring diarrhea.
Malnutrition occurs in individuals or in groups of people because of poverty, famine, wars, disease, or ignorance.
The body must obtain six basic elements from foods for good health and proper functioning. The body needs these elements for growth, repair of body tissues, production of heat and energy, and the regulation of the heart and other organs. These basic essentials are: carbohydrates, proteins, fats, water, minerals and vitamins.
When a person is unable to get enough food because of poverty or famine, he will suffer from a form of malnutrition called hollow hunger. Or he may get enough food to satisfy his appetite and yet not get all the
nourishment his body needs. This malnutrition is called hidden hunger.
