Undernutrition—not getting enough nutrients—may simply be the result of an inadequate diet or may be due to any of a wide range of disorders.
For example, it may result from diseases in which the absorption of nutrients is impaired, such as cystic fibrosis , celiac disease , Crohn’s disease , ulcerative colitis , and giardiasis or similar parasitic intestinal infections. Various long-term problems that cause nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or diarrhea may also lead to undernutrition.
These include some types of cancer, liver disease, and some respiratory disorders.
Undernutrition may also be a feature of various mental health problems or nervous system disorders, such as anorexia , depression , dementia , and alcohol misuse.
General symptoms include tiredness, weakness, weight loss, poor concentration, low mood, frequent illnesses, and a slow recovery time from illness.
In children, undernutrition may cause slower than normal growth.
Treatment of undernutrition depends on the underlying cause and the degree of deficiency, but it may involve dietary changes or nutrient supplements

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