Malnutrition is a condition that results from eating a diet in which nutrients are either not enough or are too much such that the diet causes health problems. It may involve calories, protein, carbohydrates, vitamins or minerals.Not enough nutrients is called undernutrition or undernourishment while too much is called overnutrition
Malnutrition is often used to specifically refer to undernutrition where an individual is not getting enough calories, protein, or micronutrients.If undernutrition occurs during pregnancy, or before two years of age, it may result in permanent problems with physical and mental development.Extreme undernourishment, known as starvation, may have symptoms that include: a short height, thin body, very poor energy levels, and swollen legs and abdomen
People also often get infections and are frequently cold.The symptoms of micronutrient deficiencies depend on the micronutrient that is lacking