Populations more at risk of undernutrition include: Poor and low income. Whether in a developed country like the U.S. or in developing countries with fewer resources overall, poorer communities have less access to adequate nutrition. Children. Children have greater nutritional needs than ...Read more
Populations more at risk of undernutrition include:
Poor and low income. Whether in a developed country like the U.S. or in developing countries with fewer resources overall, poorer communities have less access to adequate nutrition.
Children. Children have greater nutritional needs than adults in order to grow and develop. Disadvantaged children are especially at risk of undernutrition and its consequences.
Chronically ill. Many chronic illnesses can directly affect appetite and/or calorie absorption. Some increase your caloric needs. Spending time in the hospital is also a risk factor for undernutrition.
Elderly. As adults advance in age, their nutrition can deteriorate for several reasons, including reduced mobility, institutionalization, reduced appetite and reduced absorption of nutrients.
Populations more at risk of overnutrition include:
Poor and low income. In developed countries, poorer communities often have easier access to fast foods, which are high in calories but low in nutritional value, than they have to nutritious whole foods. This can lead to macronutrient overnutrition with micronutrient undernutrition.
Sedentary. Desk jobs, family obligations, health and social factors that keep people sitting all day instead of out and moving about can lead to significant weight gain.
Read less
