Malnutrition is a very serious health issue that is becoming more prevalent in the UK affecting approximately 3 million with most people living in their own homes. Malnutrition happens when an individual does not get the correct nutrients from their diet and, in turn, this can lead to reduced strength and mobility, increased risk of illness and infection, low energy levels and overall lower quality of life. An individual’s diet is the main cause of malnutrition, but there are a few key signs to look out for in yourself or others.
Increased Fatigue
One of the most common signs that someone is malnourished is increased fatigue. Everyone will feel fatigued from time to time and there is usually a reason for this, such as a late night, but if you are getting enough sleep and still feel sluggish, then it could be malnutrition. You need the right kind of fuel for your body, so you may need to adjust your diet to add healthy fats and proteins and remove processed items, added sugar, fried food and alcohol and caffeine.
Physical Signs
There are also physical signs that you could be malnourished and these can be alarming. You may experience hair loss or thinning if you are malnourished as well as weight loss, feeling cold often, a loss of muscle mass and brittle nails. In children, malnourishment can prevent growth. If you experience any of the above symptoms then it is a good idea to speak to a healthcare professional as these can be symptoms of many different conditions and it is important to get the right diagnosis.
Mood
Malnourishment can also impact your mood and mental well-being. This is because malnutrition can cause a deficiency in micronutrients that impact cognitive function and mental health. The positive impact that a healthy diet has on mental health should not be overlooked, so it is important to maintain a healthy and well-balanced diet for both your physical and mental well-being.
When to See Your GP
Malnutrition is a growing issue in the UK and one that needs to be addressed. It is important to see your GP if you have unintentionally lost a lot of weight over the last 6 months, you have lost your appetite, you frequently feel tired and fatigued and get ill often and take a long time to recover. It is important to get the right treatment advice as well as to rule out any other health condition.
Malnutrition is a serious health issue and one that is becoming more common in the UK. Malnutrition can seriously impact quality of life and lead to other serious health problems, which is important why it is important to know what the main signs are and what steps you can take to prevent malnutrition.
Read Also
- How Self-Heating Eye Compresses Revolutionize Dry Eye TreatmentHave you ever experienced eyes that feel dry, irritated, or constantly tired? Dry eye syndrome has become increasingly prevalent due to prolonged screen time, environmental factors, and the aging process. Many people struggle to find relief that is both safe and effective. Traditional eye drops often bring only temporary comfort. Warm compresses work well but… Read more: How Self-Heating Eye Compresses Revolutionize Dry Eye Treatment
- Choosing the Right Body Cosmetic Enhancements for YouMore people than ever are choosing body cosmetic enhancements to improve their appearance and boost their confidence. From simple treatments to full surgeries, there are many options available today. But with so many choices, it can be hard to know what’s best for you. Making the right decision means understanding what you want, learning about… Read more: Choosing the Right Body Cosmetic Enhancements for You
- Boosting Athletic Recovery Through St. George Massage TechniquesSetting the Stage: Precision Bodywork for Athletic Demands High-level training is not gentle. It grinds muscle fibers, tests tendon resilience, and locks connective tissue into microscopic knots. The wear is specific, not general, which is why one-size-fits-all relaxation rubdowns barely scratch the surface. Athletes need work that hunts down structural tension with purpose, not a… Read more: Boosting Athletic Recovery Through St. George Massage Techniques
- Supporting Aging Loved Ones: Coping with Memory Loss EffectivelyAs our loved ones age, many families find themselves grappling with the challenges of memory loss. According to recent statistics, nearly 40% of seniors experience some degree of memory impairment. These statistics can be alarming and may leave families feeling overwhelmed. However, understanding how to support aging loved ones can make a significant difference in… Read more: Supporting Aging Loved Ones: Coping with Memory Loss Effectively
- Choosing the Right Personal Injury Attorney Matters for Post Injury CareWhen you’re recovering from a personal injury, the choices you make in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact both your physical recovery and financial future. While your primary focus naturally centers on healing and regaining your health, selecting the right personal injury attorney plays a crucial role in ensuring you receive comprehensive post-injury care and… Read more: Choosing the Right Personal Injury Attorney Matters for Post Injury Care