Malnutrition: What Africans Need to Know to Stay Healthy

Isma Butt, DPT, DLHA Volunteer and Freelance Medical Writer. Reviewed by: Adebowle Bello. B Tech. Microbiology

 

A 60-year-old female Community Health Worker measures a boy's arm to detect malnutrition

 

Introduction

Have you ever heard the term “malnutrition” and wondered what it means? You're not alone! Many people think malnutrition only happens in low-income countries or that it simply means starving. It is a global problem that can affect anyone, anywhere. 

Every year, 9 million people die because of hunger, most of whom are children under 5. Malnutrition is a significant issue in Africa, impacting millions of families and children every day. According to UNICEF, in 2025, about 13 million children are acutely malnourished in Eastern and Southern Africa, out of which 4 million children are suffering from severe acute malnutrition (SAM), the most life-threatening form.

Nigeria,has been reported to have the second highest burden of stunted children in the world, with a national prevalence rate of 32 percent of children under five.  It is estimated that 2 million children in the country suffer from severe acute malnutrition (SAM), but only two out of every 10 children affected currently get treatment. Seven percent of women of childbearing age also suffer from acute malnutrition.

WHO reports that approximately 149 million children under five are stunted (short for their age), while 45 million are wasted (thin for their height) globally. Compared to other parts of the world, Africa’s rates of stunting (31%) and wasting (6%) are notably higher. Poverty, hunger, war, famine and economic insecurity worsen child food poverty and increase the risk of malnutrition, emphasizing the urgent need for action to improve nutrition and health programs across the continent. 

In this blog, you will learn what malnutrition is, what causes it, what the symptoms are, and most importantly, how you can help prevent it. 

What is Malnutrition?

 

Malnutrition info poster. Click on image to enlarge.

 

Malnutrition occurs when your body fails to receive the correct type and amount of nutrients that it requires to function normally. This can involve not consuming enough food (undernutrition) or consuming excess amounts of unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt, as well as an insufficient amount of fiber (overnutrition). Both conditions can result in severe health issues.

What is Undernutrition?

Undernutrition occurs when you do not consume enough energy-producing foods (calories), vitamins, or minerals. This can result in weight loss, a weakened immune system, and other illnesses. It's not necessarily about being underweight; it's about not having the nutrients your body needs.

What is Overnutrition?

On the other hand, overnutrition arises from consuming excessive calories, typically from poor-quality sources. This can result in obesity and later chronic health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

Who is at Risk for Malnutrition?

Malnutrition can affect anyone, but certain groups are more at risk:

• Older adults: As you age, your body does not digest food as effectively, and you may start to eat less due to changes in appetite or a decline in health.

• Children: Growing children require a well-balanced diet to support their healthy development. Not getting enough nutrients can slow their growth, development, and learning ability.

• Individuals with Chronic Diseases: Diseases such as cancer, diabetes, chronic diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal (bowel) conditions may affect how the body absorbs and uses nutrients.

• Individuals who Abuse Alcohol: Chronic and excessive abuse of alcohol results in malnutrition.

• Displaced Persons, Migrants, Refugees, and People in War-Torn Regions: These categories of people are at high risk of malnutrition because of a lack of access to nutritious foods.

• Low-income individuals: They have limited access to healthy foods, which can lead to poor nutrition.

What Causes Malnutrition?

Many factors may cause malnutrition, such as:

• Poor Dietary Choices: Consuming excessive amounts of processed foods, sweet snacks, and fast food can lead to overnutrition. On the other hand, failure to consume a sufficient quantity of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can lead to undernutrition.

• Medical Conditions: Certain illnesses, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease, can alter the way your body absorbs nutrients.

• Mental Health Problems: Due to depression, anxiety, and some other forms of mental disorders, individuals lose their interest in food and refuse to eat a healthy diet.

• Alcoholism: Chronic alcohol consumption acts in multiple ways to cause undernutrition due to the body's inability to absorb, process, and utilise nutrients. This leads to deficiencies in essential nnutrients, including vitamins and minerals. 

• Socioeconomic Status: Poor access to healthy food, lack of good cooking skills, or financial issues lead to malnourishment.

• Others:
  • Unmet needs during periods of increased nutrient and energy demand as in growing children, pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Physical disability, associated with inability to shop for food or cook in the absence of caregiver support 
  • Medications that interfere with absorption of food or decrease appetite.

What are the Symptoms and Signs of Malnutrition

Early detection of malnutrition improves the chances of full recovery. Some of the symptoms include:

• Unexplained Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss can be a sign of serious illnesses like cancer, diabetes, AIDS, and Addison's disease. Losing more than 5% of your body weight or 10 pounds (4.5 kg) within six to 12 months should raise concern.

• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak is often a sign that you need more nutrients.

• Frequent Illness: Frequent colds and infections may be a sign of a weakened immune system.

• Poor Wound Healing: Cuts or bruises not healing properly could be a sign of nutrient deficiencies.

• Changes in Mood: Feeling irritable or depressed can be linked to poor nutrition.

How is Malnutrition Identified?

A health history, including a review of your diet and physical examination, may be sufficient for your healthcare provider to identify undernutrition or overnutrition. Your healthcare provider may take your BMI measurement or measure the circumference of a child’s arm to determine the severity of the problem. Your healthcare provider may also take your blood sample and test it to detect specific micronutrient and macronutrient imbalances. 

An African child having his arm circumference measured by a healthcare worker in effort to screen for malnutrition. 

How is Malnutrition Treated?

Treatment is tailored to each individual’s condition and depends on the cause and severity of the malnutrition. Here are some general principles:

• Implement gradual refeeding programs
• Provide supplement intake (vitamins/minerals)
• Treat underlying medical conditions, physical and mental
• Resolve contributory social determinants with social improved social safety net support for especially low income families
• Provide nutrition education for families

Can I Prevent Malnutrition?

The good news is that malnutrition is often preventable. Here are some tips to help you on your prevention journey:

• Eat a Variety of Foods: Aim for a colorful plate. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your meals. Each food group provides different nutrients that your body needs.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential for overall health. Aim for at least 8 cups of water a day, and more if you’re active or in hot weather.

• Plan Your Meals: Take a few minutes during the week to plan your meals. This will help you make better decisions and reduce the need to turn to last-minute fast food. Add healthy snacks, e.g., nuts, yogurt, or fruits.

• Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body's signals of hunger and fullness. Eat when you are hungry and stop when you are full. This can help you maintain a healthy weight and ensure you receive the necessary nutrients your body needs.

• Get Assistance When Necessary: If you are having difficulty with your diet or you have issues that affect your nutrition, contact your healthcare provider early. A registered dietitian can help you develop a personalized food plan tailored to your needs. 

What are the Consequences of Malnutrition? 

Malnutrition is treatable, but some of its consequences may persist. For example, long-term undernutrition can lead to issues like blindness from vitamin A deficiency, bone softening from vitamin D deficiency, and stunted growth in children from protein-energy undernutrition, may not be reversible despite rehabilitation efforts. Similarly, the effects of prolonged overnutrition, such as obesity, insulin resistance, coronary artery disease, and increased risk of infections, can persist even after weight loss. However, with early treatment and proper follow-up care, individuals can make a full recovery.

At public health level,  the consequences of malnutrition can be grave as it increases health services utilisation especially in the under 5 age category, thereby raising cost of care,  It also reduces productivity in adults and slows economic growth because of time spent caring for malnourished children. In effect, in communities wher the burden of malnutrition is high, it sustains a harsh cycle of ill-health and economic poverty. . .

When to Seek Medical Care for Malnutrition?

If you notice any signs of malnutrition or have concerns about your diet, consult a healthcare provider. They can assess your nutritional status and offer the care you need. Remember, this support is crucial for staying on track with your health. 

Conclusion

Malnutrition is a serious issue, but it is often preventable. With the right information and healthy habits, you can choose foods that support your body and overall health. Remember, you're never too old to start making healthy changes in your diet. So, give your health the priority it deserves and feed your body with the nutrients it needs to flourish!

FAQs:

1. What causes malnutrition in children?

Main causes are:

• Poor breastfeeding practices
• Repeated infections (diarrhea/parasites prevent nutrient absorption)
• Poverty/famine (not getting enough food)
• Poor quality food (only starches, no proteins and minerals)

2. How can I tell if my child is malnourished?

Look for warning signs, such as:

• Sudden weight loss or weight gain
• Skinny arms (marasmus)
• Swollen feet/belly (kwashiorkor)
• Dry pale skin
• Iirritability 
• Tiredness and low energy
• Delayed milestones
• Irritability, fussiness or withdrawn
• Prone to infections

3. Can adults be malnourished too?

Yes, adults show the following signs:

• Constant fatigue
• Slow wound healing
• Muscle weakness
• Frequent illness
• Hair, skin and nail changes
• Depression, Irritability, Mood swings, Social withdrawal, Lack of concentration

4. What is the difference between hunger and malnutrition?

• Hunger is the physical feeling that it is time to eat; the body needs food.
• While malnutrition is a broader term resulting from undernutrition (not having rich foods) or overnutrition (having too much processed, sugary food).

 

Related:

What you need to know about micronutrients and dietary supplements in Africa

10 Health Benefits of Drinking Water

African Foods That Promote Brain Health

African foods that are rich in vitamins

7 Signs you may need a multivitamin, plus expert advice

Vitamin Supplements, Are They Necessary To Take?

 

 

Resources:

UNICEF. 13 million children malnourished in Eastern and Southern Africa in 2025. [Internet]. 2025 April 23. Cited Jul 2, 2025 Available from here.

World Health Organization (WHO). Malnutrition. [Internet]. 2024 March 1. [Cited July 2, 2025]. Available from here.

Bain LE, Awah PK, Geraldine N, Kindong NP, Sigal Y, Bernard N, Tanjeko AT. Malnutrition in Sub-Saharan Africa: burden, causes and prospects. Pan Afr Med J. 2013 Aug 6;15:120. doi: 10.11604/pamj.2013.15.120.2535. Available from here.

 

 

Watch the 2024 video below for some UNICEF promoted perspectives on Childhood malnutrition in Africa with special emphasis on Nigeria.

 

 

Published: July 2, 2025

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