What is malnutrition?
Malnutrition is a condition when we do not get enough of the nutrients from our diet in the right amounts. It relates to overweight and underweight. Being underweight can effect anyone, but it is more common for older adults, those living on their own or with an underlying health condition.
Signs that you may not be taking enough food include having a low weight or have noticed unexplained weight loss. A change to the way your clothes or jewellery fits is a sign that your weight is falling. A recent loss in appetite or low energy levels may also suggest malnutrition.
Malnutrition affects every part of the body. It can give rise to more Gp visits, hospital stays, and more complications from illness and higher care needs.
The easiest and quickest way to identify if you or someone you care for is at risk of malnutrition is to use the Patients Association Nutrition Checklist. This checklist also offers some helpful advice to help eating, drinking and making food.
Download the Patients Association Nutrition Checklist
If you have further concerns around your food intake or weight or need further advice please speak with your Gp.