Under Nutrition

Under nutrition is a condition in which an individual does not ingest enough nutrients, such as calories and vitamins, to maintain good health. It is a major cause of death, disability and ill-health in low and middle-income countries, and is becoming an increasingly prevalent issue in developed countries as well. It is associated with a higher risk of infectious and non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. In children, under nutrition can lead to stunted growth and cognitive delays. Its effects can last well into adulthood. Under nutrition can be addressed through improvements in food availability and access, dietary diversity, and nutrition education. Nutritional supplements, such as fortified foods, may also be used to prevent and treat under nutrition. Governments, international organizations, and other stakeholders are working to reduce and prevent under nutrition through a variety of methods, including nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive interventions, to improve health outcomes worldwide.