What is malnutrition?

Information for the public

Everyone needs food and water to stay alive and keep their body working normally. A balanced diet normally provides enough nutrients, such as calories, protein and vitamins, to keep you healthy. Without an adequate balanced diet you may not be getting all the nutrients you need for a healthy body. Having an inadequate diet can lead to malnutrition. Being malnourished can make you ill. If you are ill, having an adequate balanced diet is especially important. Your body needs sufficient nutrients to help you recover.