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Malnutrition

Definition

Malnutrition is a condition that results from eating a diet in which one or more nutrients are either not enough or are too much such that it causes health problems.

Analogy

Imagine your body as a car. Just like how a car needs the right balance of oil, gas, and coolant to run smoothly, your body also needs the right balance of nutrients (like proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins) to function properly. If you put too much or too little of something into the car, it won't work as well - same goes for your body with malnutrition.

Related terms

Undernutrition: This is when the body doesn't get enough nutrients. It's like trying to drive a car on an almost empty tank of gas.

Overnutrition: This happens when the intake of nutrients is oversupplied. It's like overfilling your car with gas until it spills out.

Micronutrient deficiency: This occurs when the body lacks necessary vitamins and minerals. It's like forgetting to change the oil in your car; everything might seem fine at first but eventually problems will arise.