If you notice signs of malnutrition in a relative or yourself (How malnutrition manifests itself), talk to the doctor treating you about it. He or she can then initiate countermeasures as needed, ranging from fortifying the diet with energy and nutrient concentrates to sip feeds to tube or intravenous feeding. The earlier such treatment begins, the faster it takes effect – and the better to avoid the negative consequences of malnutrition.
It is even better not to let it get that far in the first place. Even with simple measures, you can prevent malnutrition in yourself and in people who are at risk.
An important prerequisite for good nutritional status is an adequate supply of micronutrients. In sick people, it creates the basis for tolerating therapy, for recovery and for quality of life. In nutritional stress situations, however, it is often not possible to absorb sufficient vitamins and minerals through food alone. Experts therefore consider it useful to supplement specifically and at an early stage with a suitable multi-micronutrient preparation. This applies not only to patients with existing malnutrition, but also when malnutrition is expected.
If a deficiency has already developed in one or more micronutrients – such as in selenium, zinc or vitamin D – this should be specifically compensated for in consultation with the doctor.
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Mangelernährung – Das unterschätzte Risiko
