Malnutrition is widespread across America. Contrary to popular belief, malnutrition not only means you do not have enough to eat, but it can also mean you are not eating enough of the right things. With our health so closely linked to our nutrition, the Food is Medicine Coalition (FIMC) thanks the American Society for Parental and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) for educating the public on malnutrition and its impact during Malnutrition Awareness Week.
In 2022, “one in 8 households (12.8 percent) experienced food insecurity, or lack of access to an affordable, nutritious diet. An estimated 44.2 million Americans lived in these households.” With food insecurity comes a lack of choice, causing many to reach for the most accessible and affordable option, often because of a variety of factors, this is food that provides the body with little needed nutrients and many harmful ingredients. Over time, this can lead to malnutrition and potentially severe and chronic illnesses.
FIMC is a national coalition of nonprofit organizations that provide medically tailored meals (MTMs) and groceries (MTGs), medical nutrition therapy and nutrition counseling and education to people in communities across the country living with severe, complex and chronic illnesses. MTMs and MTGs are considered treatment for certain illnesses, with proven results demonstrated through existing research, but we can also detect malnutrition to intervene before it progresses into a chronic illness.
A person’s appearance and behavior will give the biggest clues as to whether they may be suffering from malnutrition. In appearance, it is common to lose significant amounts of weight, become pale, and have thinning hair. In behavior, it is likely to see low amounts of energy and productivity, and even poor mental health. If you are concerned for a loved one who may be suffering from malnutrition, encourage them to connect to their healthcare provider or community healthcare organization. Connecting them to a local FIMC agency for services may also be appropriate. We stand by ASPEN and aim to educate, empower, eliminate malnutrition in America.
Authored by: Maya Park, Manager of Membership and Accreditation, FIMC