How Do You Spell UNDERNUTRITION?

Pronunciation: [ˌʌndənjuːtɹˈɪʃən] (IPA)

Undernutrition is a term used to describe the state of being malnourished due to insufficient intake or absorption of essential nutrients. The word is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ˌʌndərnjuˈtrɪʃən/, with the stress on the third syllable. The prefix "under-" signifies a lack of or insufficient amount, while "nutrition" refers to the intake of nutrients necessary for growth and maintenance of health. Undernutrition is a significant public health challenge, particularly affecting vulnerable populations in developing countries.

UNDERNUTRITION Meaning and Definition

1. Undernutrition refers to a nutritional condition characterized by an inadequate intake or absorption of essential nutrients required for proper growth, development, and overall health. It occurs when the body does not receive the necessary amount of nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, minerals, and energy from various food sources. Consequently, undernutrition leads to a deficiency in vital nutrients, impairing the body's ability to function optimally.

   Undernutrition can be divided into two subtypes: acute and chronic. Acute undernutrition, also known as wasting, occurs when there is a rapid loss of weight and muscle mass due to a severe lack of food intake. This type of undernutrition is often associated with periods of famine, food shortages, or as a result of specific medical conditions.

   On the other hand, chronic undernutrition, also referred to as stunting, is characterized by long-term insufficient intake of essential nutrients. This gradual form of undernutrition primarily affects growth and development, resulting in decreased height, delayed physical maturation, and impaired cognitive development. Chronic undernutrition is typically caused by long-lasting inadequate nutrition and can have detrimental effects on individuals' overall health, immunity, and productivity.

   Addressing undernutrition requires a comprehensive approach, including access to a balanced and diversified diet, appropriate breastfeeding practices for infants, access to clean water and sanitation, improved healthcare, and education on proper nutrition. This is essential for combating the harmful effects of undernutrition and promoting healthier and more prosperous communities.

Common Misspellings for UNDERNUTRITION

• undernutriton
• undurnutrition

Etymology of UNDERNUTRITION

The word "undernutrition" is derived from the combination of the prefix "under-" and the noun "nutrition".

The prefix "under-" in this context indicates a deficiency or insufficiency in something. It comes from the Old English word "under", which means "below" or "beneath".

The noun "nutrition" originated from the Latin word "nutritio", which means "nourishment" or "feeding". It is derived from the verb "nutrire", meaning "to nourish" or "to feed".

Therefore, when combined, "undernutrition" refers to a state of deficient or insufficient nourishment.

Plural form of UNDERNUTRITION is UNDERNUTRITIONS