Causes of Malnutrition

Following are the major causes of Malnutrition in any community.

Overpopulation:

When the populations overgrows the resources available for a community, it causes malnutrition in masses. The more the bellies to be fed, the more likely there is a chance for food shortage. Ironically under developed countries are usually ones with highest population density.

Poverty:

Lack of resources is the biggest cause of increasing morbidity and mortality due to malnutrition. An empty pocket is almost sure to starve. The african Sub Saharan region which has a low per capita income shares the highest burden of malnutrition in the world. This includes population of both stunted and wasted children.

Diseases:

These include both physical and mental health diseases.

Physical problems include any problem associated with digestion or absorption of food. Any bacterial infection causing diarrhea or dysentry can also cause malnutrition in masses.

Mental problems include anorexia nervosa and other mental health disorders and these disorders can deprive an individual of important nutrients.

Agricultural productivity: Moderanization of agricultural industry is of utmost value if we want to fulfill the dietary demands of the region via agriculture. Lack of education in the community about the use of modern methodology is causing significant problems in this regard.

Ignorance: Ignorance can cause malnutrition at an individual level when one simply doesnt care about his or her dietary practices. This can cause a deficiency of a particular nutrient especially a micronutrient as they are a vital requirement for a normal body functioning.

Inappropriate dietary choices: Due to lack of knowledge we chose diet that is unhealthy and incomplete ie lacks some important nutrients. This causes deficiency of a particular nutrient.

Scarcity of Food supplies: In the third world countries, a majority of famines are caused by lack of food and resources. Imbalance of distribution of resources contributes alot to depriving a major population of basic needs.

 

In order to correct these underlying causes of malnutrition, a number of steps are needed to be taken including educational and awareness campaigns, eradication of poverty, balanced distribution of food and resources, controlling the population growth, increasing maternal care.

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