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By Michelle Roberts
BBC News health reporter

Climbing the stairs should not be a problem for most

Weight is a national obsession. On the one hand we are in the grip of an obesity epidemic and experts are warning us against getting fat.
On the flip side we are seeing a backlash against the super skinny.

So how can you tell if you are healthy?

Indeed a naturally slim girl who is blessed with a metabolism that stops her getting fat can be healthy and a size zero - UK size 4.

I would much rather someone be overweight yet exercise than someone be underweight and do no exercise at all

Sports scientist John Brewer

But others starve themselves to reach a goal weight when instead they would be far better off carrying a few excess pounds.

Weight is not a reliable indicator.

Doctors use a measurement called body mass index or BMI - a calculation of kilograms/metres squared - to judge a person's size against weight.

As a rule of thumb, a BMI between 18 and 25 is healthy.

But someone who is very fit and muscular could have a BMI greater than 25 which would suggest, incorrectly, that they were overweight.

Conversely, someone who has a petite frame might fall below 18 but still be healthy.

The average person should be able to:

Walk a mile in 15 minutes

Carry two bags of shopping from the supermarket to the car

Climb the stairs in a house without getting breathless

And BMI is a useless indicator in people under 16. Instead, weight for height ratio should be used to factor in the young person's age and potential for growth.

Alarm bells would ring, for example, if a child was gaining weight too quickly for their age or if they were not gaining enough weight or growing.

Body shape can also help make the picture a bit clearer. Doctors are increasingly looking at waist measurements too because they know that "apple-shape" people who carry excess weight around their middle can be at risk of obesity-related conditions such as heart disease.

Then there's what lies beneath the skin - all of the vital organs do the jobs essential to keep us alive.

These rely on the right nutrition and exercise.

Guidelines say we should eat five portions of fruit and veg a day and get 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least five times a week for good health.

Healthy signs

And there are a host of signs and measures that can indicate if we are doing enough.

Lisa Miles, nutrition scientist at the British Nutrition Foundation, said it was sometimes possible to tell if someone was malnourished just by looking at them, even if they were a 'normal' size and weight.

"For example loss in skin colour, dull and dry hair, redness or swelling of mouth or lips, problems with gums or eyes, dryness of skin and brittle/ridged nails can indicate malnourishment."

But lab tests are needed to get a full picture of a person's nutritional status, she said.

Blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg each time it is taken

A resting pulse of around 70 beats per minute

A respiratory rate of around 16-20 breaths per minute

When it comes to physique, fitness levels vary from person to person and depend on many factors, including age and sex.

But there are crude ways to tell if a person has a good general level of fitness, says John Brewer, director of the Lucozade Sports Science Academy.

"Being able to walk a mile in 15 minutes is an indicator of a reasonable level of fitness.

"You should be able to carry a couple of shopping bags from the supermarket to the car, climb the stairs in your house without getting puffed and cope with occasional, small bursts of unexpected activity."

Doctors can also look at a person's vital signs, such as pulse and blood pressure, and carry out fitness tests looking at things like lung function and capacity.

But Mr Brewer cautioned: "Looking at a one-off snap shot can be difficult. You need to look at changes over time and know what is typical for that patient.

"A general healthy lifestyle is absolutely crucial. If you do exercise, being overweight is far less of a problem. I would much rather someone be overweight yet exercise than someone be underweight and do no exercise at all."

Healthy mind

Then there is healthy and unhealthy behaviour to consider.

Susan Ringwood, chief executive of UK eating disorders charity "beat", said: "You can't always tell by a person's size, weight and shape if they are unhealthy.

"You can be seriously affected by an eating disorder and still be overweight.

Eating can become an obsession

"Most people diet at some point. Diets do not cause eating disorders. But all eating disorders start with a diet."

She said there were warning signs to look out for.

"Someone who is really obsessed with food and has rituals around it. It might be restricting types of food."

She said there were screening questions to help spot when an innocent diet might have escalated into an eating disorder: Are you worried about your food? Have you ever made yourself sick because you were concerned about being too full?

And there are physical signs.

"A girl's periods might stop. She might have downy hair on her face and body in response to a low core temperature when the body isn't getting enough energy in."

There are medical tests that can aid diagnosis.

"There may be signs of heart failure or heart rhythm problems due to the poor nourishment," Ms Ringwood said.

But she added: "It's a psychological assessment that is really needed."

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BBC NEWS | Health | How do you know you are healthy?

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By Michelle Roberts BBC News health reporter Climbing the stairs should not be a problem for most Weight is a national obsession. On the one hand we are in the grip of an obesity epidemic and experts are warning us against getting fat. On the flip side we are seeing a backlash against the super skinny.

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good read on "to what extent to determine you're healthy"

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/6994480.stm

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BBC - GCSE Bitesize: Underweight, overweight

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A secondary school revision resource for OCR GCSE Science about understanding ourselves, diet and digestion

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link for chapter: diet
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/science/ocr_gateway_pre_2011/ourselves/1_whats_for_lunch2.shtml

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Obesity is a condition that is associated with having an excess amount of body fat, defined by genetic and environmental factors that are difficult to control when dieting. Obesity is classified as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater. BMI is a tool used to measure obesity. Obesity increases your risk of developing related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and sleep apnea, to name a few. Many individuals are affected by obesity and are not aware of it.

How Obesity is Measured
Obesity is measured by various means, but the most common methods used are Body Mass Index (BMI) and Waist Circumference. There is no perfect method to measuring obesity, however these two indicators are most commonly used by clinicians as a tool to diagnose weight.

BMI
BMI is a measurement used to indicate obesity and morbid obesity in adults. BMI is calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by his or her height in meters squared. An adult with a BMI of 30 or greater is considered to have obesity. To calculate your BMI, please click here.

Once you find your measurement, you will want to find your weight classification that is accompanied on the BMI chart or calculator. Knowing your BMI is a good starting point in addressing your weight. If you find you are in an unhealthy range, you will want to talk with your doctor to address this issue.

There is not a separate BMI chart used for men and women. Both sexes use the same chart to measure obesity. In addition, the same classifications of obesity apply to both men and women.

Waist Circumference
Waist circumference is a less-common method used to measure obesity in an individual. This simple measurement indicates obesity and morbid obesity in adults by measuring your waist. To find your waist circumference, wrap a tape measure around the area above your hip bone and below your rib cage.

For females, a waist circumference of 35 inches or greater is considered unhealthy. For men, a waist circumference of 40 inches or greater is considered unhealthy. There is not a classification chart or various ranges used with this method to determine obesity. Only the simple thresholds for men and women noted above apply.

Risks Associated with Obesity
There are more than 40 medical conditions that are associated with obesity. Individuals who have obesity are at risk of developing one or more of these serious medical conditions. The most prevalent obesity-related diseases include:

High blood pressure

High cholesterol

Diabetes

Heart disease

Stroke

Gallbladder disease

Osteoarthritis

Sleep apnea and respiratory problems

Some cancers (endometrial, breast, and colon)

For a complete description on each of the above co-morbid conditions, please click here.

Causes of Obesity
There are many causes that directly and indirectly contribute to obesity. Behavior, environment and genetics are among the main contributors to obesity. The Centers for Disease Control has identified these three as the main causes to the complexity of the obesity epidemic.

Behavior
In today's fast-paced environment, it is easy to adopt unhealthy behaviors. Behavior, in the case of obesity, relates to food choices, amount of physical activity you get and the effort to maintain your health.

Americans are consuming more calories on average than in past decades. The increase in calories has also decreased the nutrients consumed that are needed for a healthy diet. This behavioral problem also relates to the increase in portion sizes at home and when dining out.

While Americans are consuming more calories, they are not expending them with enough physical activity. Physical activity is an important element in modifying and shaping behaviors. The influence of television, computers and other technologies discourage physical activity and add to the problem of obesity in our society.

Environment
Environment plays a key role in shaping an individual's habits and lifestyle. There are many environmental influences that can impact your health decisions. Today's society has developed a more sedentary lifestyle. Walking has been replaced by driving cars, physical activity has been replaced by technology and nutrition has been overcome by convenience foods.

Genetics
Science shows that genetics play a role in obesity. Genes can cause certain disorders which result in obesity. However, not all individuals who are predisposed to obesity become affected by obesity. Research is currently underway to determine which genes contribute most to obesity.

What Can You do about Your Obesity
Deciding what to do about your obesity in terms of treatment varies from person to person. If you or someone you know has obesity, addressing this issue early is an essential part of success. It is important to talk to your physician about your weight and work with him/her when deciding which treatment is right for you. There are several methods available to address your obesity.

Behavior Modification and Physical Activity
As discussed above, behavior plays a large role in obesity. Modifying those behaviors that may have contributed to developing obesity is one way to treat the disease. A few suggested behavior modifiers include:

Changing eating habits

Increasing physical activity

Becoming educated about the body and how to nourish it appropriately

Engaging in a support group or extra curricular activity

Setting realistic weight management goals

It is important to make a solid commitment to changing a behavior or lifestyle. Involve your family and/or friends and ask them to help you make the necessary changes to positively impact your health.

Increasing or initiating a physical activity program is an important aspect in managing obesity. Today's society has developed a very sedentary lifestyle and routine physical activity can greatly impact your health.

You should consult with your physician before initiating any exercise program. Set realistic goals and make sure they are measurable. Involving your family or friends can also help to maintain your physical activity level and reach your goals.

Commercial Programs
Participating in a non-clinical program or commercially operated program is another form of treatment for obesity. Some programs may be commercially operated, such as a privately owned weight-loss chain. Counselors, books, Web sites or support groups are all ways you can be involved in a non-clinical weight-loss program.

Physician-supervised Weight-loss
Physician-supervised weight-loss programs provide treatment in a clinical setting with a licensed healthcare professional, such as a medical doctor, nurse, registered dietitian and/or psychologist. These programs typically offer services such as nutrition education, pharmacotherapy, physical activity and behavioral therapy.

To learn more about all the available weight-loss options, please visit " Obesity Treatments."

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What is Obesity? - Obesity Action Coalition

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Obesity is a condition that is associated with having an excess amount of body fat, defined by genetic and environmental factors that are difficult to control when dieting. Obesity is classified as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater. BMI is a tool used to measure obesity.

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Possible Health Risks suffered by obese people.

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Factors of Obesity

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Overview

Obesity is a complex disorder involving an excessive amount of body fat. Obesity isn't just a cosmetic concern. It increases your risk of diseases and health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Being extremely obese means you are especially likely to have health problems related to your weight.

The good news is that even modest weight loss can improve or prevent the health problems associated with obesity. Dietary changes, increased physical activity and behavior changes can help you lose weight. Prescription medications and weight-loss surgery are additional options for treating obesity.

Symptoms

Obesity is diagnosed when your body mass index (BMI) is 30 or higher. Your body mass index is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms (kg) by your height in meters (m) squared.

For most people, BMI provides a reasonable estimate of body fat. However, BMI doesn't directly measure body fat, so some people, such as muscular athletes, may have a BMI in the obese category even though they don't have excess body fat. Ask your doctor if your BMI is a problem.

When to see a doctor

If you think you may be obese, and especially if you're concerned about weight-related health problems, see your doctor or health care provider. You and your provider can evaluate your health risks and discuss your weight-loss options.

Causes

Although there are genetic, behavioral and hormonal influences on body weight, obesity occurs when you take in more calories than you burn through exercise and normal daily activities. Your body stores these excess calories as fat.

Obesity can sometimes be traced to a medical cause, such as Prader-Willi syndrome, Cushing's syndrome, and other diseases and conditions. However, these disorders are rare and, in general, the principal causes of obesity are:

Inactivity. If you're not very active, you don't burn as many calories. With a sedentary lifestyle, you can easily take in more calories every day than you use through exercise and normal daily activities.

Unhealthy diet and eating habits. Weight gain is inevitable if you regularly eat more calories than you burn. And most Americans' diets are too high in calories and are full of fast food and high-calorie beverages.

Risk factors

Obesity usually results from a combination of causes and contributing factors, including:

Genetics. Your genes may affect the amount of body fat you store, and where that fat is distributed. Genetics may also play a role in how efficiently your body converts food into energy and how your body burns calories during exercise.

Family lifestyle. Obesity tends to run in families. If one or both of your parents are obese, your risk of being obese is increased. That's not just because of genetics. Family members tend to share similar eating and activity habits.

Inactivity. If you're not very active, you don't burn as many calories. With a sedentary lifestyle, you can easily take in more calories every day than you burn through exercise and routine daily activities. Having medical problems, such as arthritis, can lead to decreased activity, which contributes to weight gain.

Unhealthy diet. A diet that's high in calories, lacking in fruits and vegetables, full of fast food, and laden with high-calorie beverages and oversized portions contributes to weight gain.

Medical problems. In some people, obesity can be traced to a medical cause, such as Prader-Willi syndrome, Cushing's syndrome and other conditions. Medical problems, such as arthritis, also can lead to decreased activity, which may result in weight gain.

Certain medications. Some medications can lead to weight gain if you don't compensate through diet or activity. These medications include some antidepressants, anti-seizure medications, diabetes medications, antipsychotic medications, steroids and beta blockers.

Social and economic issues. Research has linked social and economic factors to obesity. Avoiding obesity is difficult if you don't have safe areas to exercise. Similarly, you may not have been taught healthy ways of cooking, or you may not have money to buy healthier foods. In addition, the people you spend time with may influence your weight - you're more likely to become obese if you have obese friends or relatives.

Age. Obesity can occur at any age, even in young children. But as you age, hormonal changes and a less active lifestyle increase your risk of obesity. In addition, the amount of muscle in your body tends to decrease with age. This lower muscle mass leads to a decrease in metabolism. These changes also reduce calorie needs, and can make it harder to keep off excess weight. If you don't consciously control what you eat and become more physically active as you age, you'll likely gain weight.

Pregnancy. During pregnancy, a woman's weight necessarily increases. Some women find this weight difficult to lose after the baby is born. This weight gain may contribute to the development of obesity in women.

Quitting smoking. Quitting smoking is often associated with weight gain. And for some, it can lead to enough weight gain that the person becomes obese. In the long run, however, quitting smoking is still a greater benefit to your health than continuing to smoke.

Lack of sleep. Not getting enough sleep or getting too much sleep can cause changes in hormones that increase your appetite. You may also crave foods high in calories and carbohydrates, which can contribute to weight gain.

Even if you have one or more of these risk factors, it doesn't mean that you're destined to become obese. You can counteract most risk factors through diet, physical activity and exercise, and behavior changes.

Complications

If you're obese, you're more likely to develop a number of potentially serious health problems, including:

High triglycerides and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol

Type 2 diabetes

High blood pressure

Metabolic syndrome - a combination of high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol

Heart disease

Stroke

Cancer, including cancer of the uterus, cervix, endometrium, ovaries, breast, colon, rectum, esophagus, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidney and prostate

Breathing disorders, including sleep apnea, a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts

Gallbladder disease

Gynecological problems, such as infertility and irregular periods

Erectile dysfunction and sexual health issues

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, a condition in which fat builds up in the liver and can cause inflammation or scarring

Osteoarthritis

Quality of life

When you're obese, your overall quality of life may be diminished. You may not be able to do things you used to do, such as participating in enjoyable activities. You may avoid public places. Obese people may even encounter discrimination.

Other weight-related issues that may affect your quality of life include:

Depression

Disability

Sexual problems

Shame and guilt

Social isolation

Lower work achievement

Prevention

Whether you're at risk of becoming obese, currently overweight or at a healthy weight, you can take steps to prevent unhealthy weight gain and related health problems. Not surprisingly, the steps to prevent weight gain are the same as the steps to lose weight: daily exercise, a healthy diet, and a long-term commitment to watch what you eat and drink.

Exercise regularly. You need to get 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week to prevent weight gain. Moderately intense physical activities include fast walking and swimming.

Follow a healthy eating plan. Focus on low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid saturated fat and limit sweets and alcohol. Eat three regular meals a day with limited snacking. You can still enjoy small amounts of high-fat, high-calorie foods as an infrequent treat. Just be sure to choose foods that promote a healthy weight and good health most of the time.

Know and avoid the food traps that cause you to eat. Identify situations that trigger out-of-control eating. Try keeping a journal and write down what you eat, how much you eat, when you eat, how you're feeling and how hungry you are. After a while, you should see patterns emerge. You can plan ahead and develop strategies for handling these types of situations and stay in control of your eating behaviors.

Monitor your weight regularly. People who weigh themselves at least once a week are more successful in keeping off excess pounds. Monitoring your weight can tell you whether your efforts are working and can help you detect small weight gains before they become big problems.

Be consistent. Sticking to your healthy-weight plan during the week, on the weekends, and amidst vacation and holidays as much as possible increases your chances of long-term success.

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Obesity is a complex disorder involving an excessive amount of body fat. Obesity isn't just a cosmetic concern. It increases your risk of diseases and health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. Being extremely obese means you are especially likely to have health problems related to your weight.

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Mineral Deficient

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Nutrient Excess

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Nutrient Deficiency

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Anorexia Nervosa is a psychological and potentially life-threatening eating disorder. Those suffering from this eating disorder are typically suffering from an extremely low body weight relative to their height and body type.

Often referred to as BMI (Body Mass Index) is a tool that treatment providers often use to assess the appropriateness of body weight for an individual struggling with an eating disorder. Additionally, observations of eating patterns, exercise, and personality traits may give indications of an anorexic diagnosis. Those struggling with anorexia frequently fear gaining weight and have a distorted body image. They often believe they appear much heavier than they are.

Additionally, women and men who suffer from this eating disorder exemplify a fixation with a thin figure and abnormal eating patterns. Anorexia nervosa is interchangeable with the term anorexia, which refers to self-starvation and lack of appetite.

Major Types of Anorexia

There are two common types of anorexia, which are as follows:

Binge/Purge Type - The person struggling with this type of eating disorder will often purge after eating. This alleviates the fear of gaining weight and offsets some of the guilt of having ingested forbidden, or highly restricted food. The compensatory purge behavior by the individual with Binge/Purge Type anorexia may purge by exercising excessively, vomiting or abusing laxatives.

Restrictive - The individual suffering from restrictive anorexia is often perceived as highly self-disciplined. They restrict the quantity of food, calories and often high fat or high sugar foods. They consume far fewer calories than are needed to maintain a healthy weight. This is a heartbreaking form of self-starvation.

Though two classifications of this eating disorder exist, both types exhibit similar symptoms, such as an irrational fear of weight gain and abnormal eating patterns.

Causes of Anorexia

It has been said that genetics load the gun and environment pulls the trigger in eating disorders. This eating disorder is based on genetic predisposition, personality traits, and environmental factors.

Examples of environmental factors that would contribute to the occurrence of this eating disorder are:

The effects of the thinness culture in media, that constantly reinforce thin people as ideal stereotypes

Professions and careers that promote being thin and weight loss, such as ballet and modeling

Family and childhood traumas: childhood sexual abuse, severe trauma

Peer pressure among friends and co-workers to be thin or be sexy.

Examples of biological factors include:

Irregular hormone functions

Genetics (the tie between anorexia and one's genes is still being heavily researched, but we know that genetics is a part of the story).

Anorexia Signs & Symptoms

An individual suffering from anorexia nervosa may reveal one or several signs and symptoms such as:

Chronic restrictive eating or dieting, beyond the norm

Rapidly losing weight or being significantly underweight and emaciated

Obsession with calories and fat contents of food

Engaging in ritualistic eating patterns, such as cutting food into tiny pieces, eating alone, and/or hiding food

Continued fixation with food, recipes, or cooking; the individual may cook intricate meals for others but refrain from partaking

Amenorrhea: an abnormal absence of menstruation, or loss of 3 consecutive menstrual cycles

Depression or lethargic stage

Development of lanugo: soft, fine hair that grows on face and body

Reported sensation of feeling cold, particularly in extremities

Loss or thinning of hair

Avoidance of social functions, family, and friends. May become isolated and withdrawn

Dieting Vs. Anorexia

Though the restrictive eating patterns that characterize this anorexic eating disorder are similar to dieting behaviors, there are stark differences between the two. The effects of the extreme behaviors resulting from this disease are far more devastating and consequential than any ill effects from dieting.

While someone may diet in an attempt to control weight, anorexia nervosa is often an attempt to gain control over one's life and emotions, especially in the light of traumatic events or a chaotic environment.

While someone might diet in an attempt to lose weight as the primary goal, in anorexia they may diet because they perceive losing weight as a way to achieve happiness and self-mastery.

Anorexia Treatment

Seeking anorexia recovery from a well-qualified team of eating disorder specialists, consisting of a therapist, physician and nutritionist are recommended. Effective, holistic eating disorder treatment of anorexia involves three necessary components:

Medical: The highest priority in the treatment of anorexia nervosa is addressing any serious health issues that may have resulted from the eating disordered behaviors, such as malnutrition, electrolyte imbalance, amenorrhea and an unstable heartbeat.

Nutritional: This component encompasses weight restoration, implementation and supervision of a tailored meal plan, and education about normal eating patterns.

Therapy: The goal of this part of treatment is to recognize underlying issues associated with the eating disorder, address and heal from traumatic life events, learn healthier coping skills and further develop the capacity to express and deal with emotions.

Search for accredited eating disorder treatment centers in our directory.

Articles on Anorexia Nervosa

1. How Dangerous Are the Long-Term Effects of Anorexia?
Anorexia Nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any mental health issue. The physical dangers of starvation and consequences of declining mental and physical health are numerous. Learn more about the debilitating health consequences of anorexia nervosa...Read This Article

2. Atypical Anorexia Nervosa: Signs and Symptoms
Atypical anorexia nervosa is featured in the Diagnostic & Statics Manual, Edition 5 (DSM-5) category of Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OFSED). Frighteningly, many individuals who have Atypical Anorexia do not believe they have an eating disorder and are less likely to seek the life-saving treatment they need. Learn about the dangers and concerns of Atypical Anorexia Nervosa...Read This Article

3. Anorexia Recovery and Overcoming Physical Side Effects of an Eating Disorder
A highly regarded physician specializing in treating acute eating disorders outlines the health consequences of Anorexia Nervosa and the challenges faced in recovering from this life-threatening eating disorder. Learn about electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, edema and other physical consequences of anorexia nervosa...Read This Article

Page Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on February 14, 2018
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com, Eating Disorders Information & Resources

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Anorexia: Signs, Symptoms, Causes and Articles For Treatment

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Anorexia Nervosa is a psychological and potentially life-threatening eating disorder. Those suffering from this eating disorder are typically suffering from an extremely low body weight relative to their height and body type. Often referred to as BMI (Body Mass Index) is a tool that treatment providers often use to assess the appropriateness of body weight for an individual struggling with an eating disorder.

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Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, or weak, brittle bones, can result from lack of dietary calcium -- or reduced calcium absorption in your body. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, groups of people with an increased risk for developing osteoporosis include postmenopausal women, women with eating disorders such as anorexia, people who avoid dairy products and vegetarians. Although dairy products are an excellent source of calcium, you don’t have to consume dairy foods to meet your daily calcium requirements. Calcium-fortified foods and beverages – like some breakfast cereals, brands of orange juice, tofu, soy milk, almond milk and soy yogurt – are excellent sources of dietary calcium. Many multivitamin supplements are also rich in calcium.

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1.    Malnutrition can be caused by:
a.     A reduced intake of nutrients.
b.    An inability to use absorbed nutrients.
c.     The failure to meet a required increase in nutrient intake.
d.    Nutrient losses.
2.    There are three stages to provide energy in cases of malnutrition:
a.     The carbohydrates stores in the body are used.
b.    The fat reserves are oxidised.
c.     Proteins in the muscle are broken down.
Finally, when protein levels have been reduced to half their normal value, it may be fatal

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Comparison chart

Anorexia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa

Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms

Obsession with food, weight, and a "thin" body image; extreme fear of weight gain; compulsive exercise; depression and anxiety; low self-esteem; body dysmorphic disorder.

Obsession with food, weight, and a "thin" body image; extreme fear of weight gain; compulsive exercise; depression and anxiety; low self-esteem; body dysmorphic disorder.

Signs and Symptoms

In many cases, the behavioral, psychological, and physical characteristics of anorexia are more obvious to outsiders than the characteristics of bulimia, which are often subtle. However, it is common for there to be overlapping symptoms between the two disorders.

Behavioral and Psychological Characteristics

Anorexia and bulimia share numerous psychological symptoms:

Low self-esteem

Obsession with food, weight, and a "thin" body image

Fear of weight gain

Compulsive exercise

Tendency to use the bathroom directly after eating

Symptoms of depression and/or anxiety

Substance abuse

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), which affects one's ability to see the body as it truly appears; often causes one to think she is "fat" and/or oddly-shaped.

Symptoms for anorexia and bulimia differ in terms of how those with these conditions relate to food and what ritualistic behaviors they exhibit.

Relationship to food: People with anorexia usually avoid eating, go on restrictive diets or lengthy and frequent fasts, and hesitate or delay eating even small portions of food, while people with bulimia go through periods of binge eating and periods of purging. In other words, an outsider may see evidence of excessive eating habits in the case of bulimia - e.g., buying lots of food and eating it in a very short time - but evidence of undereating in the case of anorexia - e.g., buying little food, and then not even eating that small amount. Those with bulimia are more likely to employ the frequent use of diet pills, diuretics, laxatives, and/or enemas to lose weight, but anorexia sufferers may purge in this way as well.

Ritualistic behaviors: Except in cases where a person suffers from both disorders, someone with anorexia alone will not binge eat at all and will not necessarily go through the excessive purging stages that a person with bulimia will. In anorexia, a person tries to avoid food altogether. This usually results in a number of odd and strict rules about when, where, what, and how to eat, with many hiding their dietary habits from others and avoiding eating altogether. A common behavior seen in those with anorexia is the tendency to move food around on a plate, or cut it into small pieces, without ever actually eating. Those with bulimia will often exhibit near-normal dietary habits, but will use the bathroom directly after eating (often to force vomiting).

It is common for those with bulimia or anorexia to be unwilling to admit they have a health condition. This can even blossom into support for anorexic or bulimic behavioral traits, as is sometimes seen in "pro-ana" communities, where there is "thinspiration" (idolizing thin, skinny, and unweight bodies) and anorexia is personified ("Ana").

Physical Characteristics

When it comes to those who suffer from one, rather than both, of these illnesses, there are markedly different associated physical characteristics.

There is some correlation with age (though not causation). Bulimia tends to develop in older teens and young adults, whereas anorexia is generally seen in younger teens who are going through puberty. However, these are just the most common age groups affected and diagnosed; both eating disorders can occur at any age or stage of life.

Anorexia, more than bulimia, is likely to result in an extremely underweight and unhealthy figure, but a low body weight is possible in both conditions. Bulimia is most often associated with a normal a weight, but this does not mean the disorder is less serious overall.

While physical weakness, deterioration, and organ dysfunction are usually worse in cases where lots of weight has been lost, a number of negative physical symptoms arise, regardless of weight, due to the unhealthy habits associated with these eating disorders. In both conditions, anemia, dehydration, low blood pressure, muscle fatigue, irregular heartbeat, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, kidney problems (e.g., stones or even failure), gastrointestinal pain and/or bowel irregularity, hormonal disruption (e.g., amenorrhea, or absent periods) and reproductive problems (e.g., miscarriage), and skin conditions are all common symptoms. In anorexia, there is also hair thinning or loss, and in bulimia there are a number of oral and dental indicators related to vomiting (e.g., cavities and tooth enamel loss due to frequent exposure to stomach acid).

Bulimia and anorexia also negatively affect brain and nervous system health, particularly in cases where an extreme amount of weight has been lost. Weight loss can exacerbate the depressive and anxious feelings that are often associated with these disorders. Experiencing memory loss, going through mood swings, and feeling faint are all common physical symptoms.

What Causes Eating Disorders?

Doctors do not yet know what causes eating disorders. However, anorexia and bulimia have known associated risk factors.

Culture may play a significant role in the development of eating disorders, which seem to be more common in nations where media and advertising focus on beauty, "perfection," and even weight loss - usually to target a wholly different demographic: those who are obese.

Families are an important factor in anorexia and bulimia. Many who struggle with anorexia or bulimia had a parent who also struggled with the disorder(s), or they had a parent who placed a high priority on physical beauty or criticized their physical appearance when they were younger.

Stressful events, particularly when coupled with a "high-strung" or perfectionist personality in someone with low self-esteem, can lead to the development of eating disorders. The stress of puberty and growing up seem to be common factors in anorexia and bulimia.

Biology, including genes and one's chemical and bacterial makeup, may ultimately be the biggest factor, but research is ongoing. In 2014, researchers discovered an bacterial protein in the intestines which can trigger or inhibit a feeling of fullness in the brain. Learning how to target this protein and manage its activity may open the door to medications that can treat anorexia and bulimia.

Diagnosis

As weight loss is common to numerous other illnesses, diagnosing anorexia and bulimia can be difficult in some cases. For this reason, doctors will often need to thoroughly examine patients and run a series of blood tests to properly diagnose these disorders and figure out a course of treatment.

Diagnosing anorexia in cases of extreme weight loss is easier than in cases where only slight weight loss has occurred. Bulimia is easier to diagnose due to the obvious oral/dental symptoms associated with the disorder.

Treating Anorexia and Bulimia

Due to bulimia being associated with average body weight, it is rare for this disorder to call for hospitalization. Anorexia, however, frequently lands sufferers in the hospital over time, as organs are prone to malfunction or fail as one loses abnormal amounts of weight.

Treating bulimia and anorexia can be difficult and, in some cases, impossible, and it appears that the age of onset and diagnosis is important. Many who have an eating disorder will not acknowledge and admit that they have an eating disorder. This makes anorexia and bulimia difficult not only for those suffering from the disorder, but also for their friends and family.

In cases where a person is open to receiving treatment, there is hope to be found in a variety of outpatient and inpatient care facilities. Treatment teams consist of dietitians, doctors and psychotherapists who specialize in eating disorders, and occasionally psychiatrists who may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a popular method of therapy for treating these disorders, as changing how one thinks about weight and food is a primary goal. Treatment tends to also include more healthful coping mechanisms for handling stress and triggering subjects.

Long-Term Outcomes

The long-term prognosis for both disorders varies. While the majority of those who have sought treatment report moderate to complete recovery a number of years later, a significant minority (~10-30%) still struggle with symptoms and even relapses. Among those who struggle the most, suicide is common.

Anorexia is harder to treat than bulimia. Roughly 20% of those who diagnosed with anorexia are dependent on social services. Worse, it is a very deadly disease, with one of the highest mortality rates among mental disorders. In a 21-year follow-up study, nearly 16% of the study's participants "died from causes related to anorexia nervosa."

Statistics

While both eating disorders can affect both sexes and all ages and races, they are more commonly diagnosed in young Caucasian women. At least one study has suggested racial differences have had more to do with racial prejudices affecting diagnosis, but further research is required.

90-95% of all those first diagnosed with anorexia or bulimia are young women between the ages of 15 and 24. Bulimia, affecting around 1% of young women in the U.S., is more common than anorexia, which affects 0.3%.

Body dysmorphic disorder, which is sometimes coupled with one or both of these disorders, is nearly as common in men (2.2%) as it is in women (2.5%).

References

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What's the difference between Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa? Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are the most common clinically recognized eating disorders. Those with anorexia have a tendency to skip meals, adopt highly restrictive and unhealthy diets, obsess over thinness and food, and present abnormal eating hab...

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http://www.healthline.com/health/malnutrition#Types2

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GustoImages / Getty Images

Body Mass Index (BMI) provides an easy way to measure obesity, but more doctors are questioning its accuracy and usefulness.

BMI is supposed to estimate the amount of body fat a person carries based on height and weight, and categorizes people based on what is appropriate for their size. BMI readings under 18.5 mean you are underweight, and could put on a few pounds. If you fall between 18.5 and 24.9, you're considered normal, while a BMI of 30 or higher qualifies as overweight.

But in recent years, more researchers argue that it's not the most accurate way to measure body weight. For years, scientists have said that BMI can't distinguish between fat and muscle, which tends to be heavier and can tip more toned individuals into overweight status, even if their fat levels are low. In the journal Science, the latest data from University of Pennsylvania shows that BMI also doesn't tease apart different types of fat, each of which can have different metabolic effects on health. BMI cannot take into consideration, for example, where the body holds fat. Belly fat, which is known as visceral fat, is more harmful than fat that simply sitting under the skin. Visceral fat develops deep among muscles and around organs like the liver and by releasing certain hormones and other agents, it disrupts the body's ability to balance its energy needs. Even relatively thin people can have high levels of visceral fat, which means they might be considered healthy by BMI standards, but internally they may actually be at higher risk of developing health problems related to weigh gain.

( MORE: Five Things You're Getting Wrong About Weight and Weight Loss)

In April of last year, a study published in the journal PLoS One documented such inconsistencies and questioned the accuracy of using BMI to classify weight status of 1,400 men and women. As TIME reported:

Among the study participants, about half of women who were not classified as obese according to their BMI actually were obese when their body fat percentage was taken into account. Among the men, in contrast, about a quarter of obese men had been missed by BMI. Further, a quarter who were categorized as obese by BMI were not considered obese based on their body fat percentage. Overall, about 39% of participants who were classified as overweight by their BMI were actually obese, according to their percent body fat.

( MORE: 6 Weight Loss Tips Straight from the Nation's Premier Spas)

So why is BMI still the preferred way to measure weight and evaluate obesity? For one, it's a relatively easy measurement for doctors to take during an office visit. Taking a person's height and weight and plugging it into an equation produces a number that informs doctors about whether their patients are at high, low or no risk when it comes to weight-related health problems.

But there may be better ways to measure body fat that provide more useful readings on how likely a person's weight will contribute to chronic health problems. CT scans and MRIs can provide a clearer glimpse at the body's make-up by separating out fat from muscle, for example. But these are expensive and involved compared to stepping on a scale. Other types of scans, including dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) images, which are normally used to measure bone density, can also distinguish between fat from bone and muscle mass, but are also costly.

On the more practical level, some researchers have been pushing for using waist circumference or even wrist circumference to gauge potentially harmful weight gain and fat depots, but the evidence supporting this measurement and its ability to predict future health problems isn't definitive enough yet.

So without a viable way to change how we measure body fat, for now, BMI is the best option. The study authors argue that perhaps doctors should rely on not just assessing body composition but measuring hormones and biomarkers in the blood or urine, for example, to get a better handle on abnormal processes that may contribute to obesity and chronic disease. And until such tests become available, BMI may still prove useful yet - if doctors combine BMI with a comprehensive evaluation of their patients' medical history and lifestyle habits to get a meaningful, if not yet perfectly precise picture of their weight-related health.

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Why BMI Isn't The Best Measure for Weight (or Health)

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Body Mass Index (BMI) provides an easy way to measure obesity, but more doctors are questioning its accuracy and usefulness. BMI is supposed to estimate the amount of body fat a person carries based on height and weight, and categorizes people based on what is appropriate for their size.

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According to the Vitamin D Council, about 40 percent of the population worldwide is affected by vitamin D deficiency. Dark skinned individuals are at a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones. It helps the body maintain the right levels of calcium in order to regulate the development of teeth and bones. A lack of this nutrient can lead to stunted or defective bone growth. Osteoporosis, caused by a lack of calcium and vitamin D, can lead to porous and fragile bones that break very easily.

Vitamin D is found naturally in only a few foods. Foods with vitamin D include:

fish liver oils

fatty fish

mushrooms

egg yolks

liver

Many dairy products in the United States are fortified with vitamin D. Ultraviolet light from the sun is also a source of vitamin D. According to the NIH’s Office of Dietary Supplements, research suggests that five to 30 minutes of sun exposure twice a week on the face, arms, neck, or back can provide you with enough vitamin D. (Although recommended for UV protection, sunscreen does hinder vitamin D absorption from sunlight through the skin, so spend a few minutes in the sun prior to sunscreen for optimal vitamin D absorption).

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There are three types of protein-energy malnutrition in children:

Acute malnutrition- The symptoms are wasting or thinness. It is a situation where acute inadequate nutrition leading to rapid weight loss or failure to gain weight normally.

Chronic malnutrition- The symptoms are stunting or shortness. It is a situation where inadequate nutrition over long period of time leads to failure of linear growth.

Acute and chronic malnutrition- the symptom is being underweight. Its ia a situation where a combination measure could occur as a result of wasting, stunting, or both.

Related Questions

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What are the different types of protein energy malnutrition? | seeDoc

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There are three types of protein-energy malnutrition in children: Acute malnutrition- The symptoms are wasting or thinness. It is a situation where acute inadequate nutrition leading to rapid weight loss or failure to gain weight normally. Chronic malnutrition- The symptoms are stunting or shortness.

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4 Diseases Caused by a Lack of Essential Vitamins and Minerals

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4 Diseases Caused by a Lack of Essential Vitamins and Minerals

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1. SCURVY

Courtesy of The Diseases of Infancy and Childhood

The disease of pirates: the grey-death. Scurvy is caused by a lack of vitamin C, whose chemical name, ascorbic acid, is derived from the Latin term for scurvy, scorbutus. Even though the disease was known since ancient times (described by Hippocrates around 400 BCE), it was not a scourge to those who were largely land-bound. Even though its causes were unknown, many cultures realized that eating certain herbs could reverse the symptoms, and as long as there was access to fresh food, it was generally kept under control.

2. RICKETS

Courtesy of Blatner.com

This condition is brought on by a lack of vitamin D, which causes the body to be unable to absorb or deposit calcium. Less commonly, it can also be caused by a lack of calcium or phosphorus, but vitamin D deficiency is by far the most common cause. Unlike vitamin C, the human body is able to produce vitamin D, but only if it has the metabolic precursors available to it.

3. BERIBERI

Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

This condition is largely confined to Asia, especially in countries where boiled rice is a staple. The Sinhalese term “beri-beri” means, “I cannot, I cannot,” and derives from the inability to perform even the simplest of tasks once the polyneuritis (nerve inflammation) caused by the deficiency of vitamin B1 (thiamine) has permanently damaged the neurons, when the condition has progressed to the end-stage.

4. PELLAGRA

Courtesy of Open Library

What causes blistering of the skin in the sun, pale skin, a craving for raw meat, blood dripping from the mouth, aggression, and insanity? If you answered “vampirism,” you’re close—the myth of the vampire may have its roots in the condition known as “pellagra.”

Pellagra is caused by a lack of vitamin B3 (niacin). First identified and commonly diagnosed in the Asturian Empire (now Northern Spain), it was originally called “Asturian leprosy.” However, the condition was seen throughout Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, wherever a large percentage of food energy was derived from corn, and fresh meat was not available. The area of highest prevalence was Northern Italy, where Francesco Frapoli of Milan called it “pelle agra,” meaning “sour skin.”

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Good Reading

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The body requires many different vitamins and minerals that are crucial for both body development and preventing disease. These vitamins and minerals are often referred to as micronutrients. They aren't produced naturally in the body, so you have to get them from your diet.

A nutritional deficiency occurs when the body doesn't absorb or get from food the necessary amount of a nutrient. Deficiencies can lead to a variety of health problems. These can include digestion problems, skin disorders, stunted or defective bone growth, and even dementia.

The amount of each nutrient you should consume depends on your age. In the United States, many foods that you buy in the grocery store - such as cereals, bread, and milk - are fortified with nutrients that are needed to prevent nutritional deficiency.

But sometimes your body is unable to absorb certain nutrients even if you're consuming them. It's possible to be deficient in any of the nutrients your body needs.

Keep reading to learn about some common nutritional deficiencies and how to avoid them.

The most widespread nutritional deficiency worldwide is iron deficiency. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia. This is a blood disorder that causes fatigue, weakness, and a variety of other symptoms.

Iron is found in foods such as dark leafy greens, red meat, and egg yolks. It helps your body make red blood cells. When you're iron-deficient, your body produces fewer red blood cells. The red blood cells it produces are smaller and paler than healthy blood cells. They're also less efficient at delivering oxygen to your tissues and organs.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 30 percent of the world's population is anemic. Many of these people are anemic due to iron deficiency.

In fact, it's the only nutritional deficiency that's prevalent in both developing and industrialized countries. Iron deficiency anemia affects so many people that it's now widely recognized as a public health epidemic.

Vitamin A is a group of nutrients crucial for eye health and functioning and reproductive health in men and women. It also plays a part in strengthening the immune system against infections.

According to WHO, a lack of vitamin A is the leading cause of preventable blindness in children. Pregnant women deficient in vitamin A have higher maternal mortality rates as well.

Beta carotene is a nutrient that functions as an antioxidant. It's found in red, orange, yellow, and dark green produce. Beta carotene can be converted to vitamin A in the body when needed.

For newborn babies, the best source of vitamin A is breast milk. For everyone else, it's important to eat plenty of foods high in vitamin A. These include:

milk

eggs

green vegetables, such as kale, broccoli, and spinach

orange vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin

reddish-yellow fruits, such as apricots, papaya, peaches, and tomatoes

Another common nutritional deficiency occurs with thiamine, also known as vitamin B-1. Thiamine is an important part of your nervous system. It also helps your body turn carbohydrates into energy as part of your metabolism.

A lack of thiamine can result in:

Thiamine deficiency can also lead to nerve and muscle damage and can affect the heart.

In the United States, thiamine deficiency is most often seen in people with excessive alcohol use. Alcohol reduces the body's ability to absorb thiamine, store thiamine in the liver, and convert thiamine to a usable form. Thiamine deficiency is a common cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. This is a form of dementia.

Many breakfast cereals and grain products in the United States are fortified with thiamine. Other good sources of thiamine include:

Niacin is another mineral that helps the body convert food into energy. It's also known as vitamin B-3.

A severe deficiency in niacin is often referred to as pellagra. Niacin is found in most animal proteins but also in peanuts. As a result, this condition is rare in industrialized countries or in meat-eating communities.

Symptoms of pellagra include diarrhea, dementia, and skin disorders. You can usually treat it with a balanced diet and vitamin B-3 supplements.

Vitamin B-9 helps the body create red blood cells and produce DNA. It's often referred to as folate. Folate also helps brain development and nervous system functioning. Folic acid is the synthetic form found in supplements or fortified foods.

Folate is especially important for fetal development. It plays a crucial role in the formation of a developing child's brain and spinal cord. Folate deficiency can lead to severe birth defects, growth problems, or anemia.

You can find folate in the following foods:

beans and lentils

citrus fruits

leafy green vegetables

asparagus

meats, such as poultry and pork

shellfish

fortified grain products

whole grains

While beans can provide a great amount of folate, the folate content in canned beans is about half of what cooked, dried beans offer.

Most people in the United States get enough folate. But pregnant women and women of childbearing age sometimes don't consume enough folate for a healthy pregnancy.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends that women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant consume up to 400 micrograms of folic acid each day - over and above the folate they're getting from food naturally - to help prevent birth defects.

There's also research showing that some people have genetic mutations that prevent their body from methylating folate, or converting it to a form the body can use. In these cases, while folate intake might be adequate, a supplement of methylated folate may be necessary to prevent deficiency.

Vitamin B-12 is a B vitamin that's responsible for assisting the body in making enough healthy red blood cells. Deficiency in this vitamin is common among people who:

are vegans

have had gastric surgery

are over 60 years old

have diabetes and take metformin (Glucophage)

have a long history of antacid use

lack intrinsic factor

Intrinsic factor is a transport protein secreted by the stomach cells. It binds to B-12 and takes it to the small intestine for absorption. This is the way the body is able to absorb and utilize B-12.

Adequate calcium intake at meals is required for intrinsic factor to assist in B-12 absorption in the small intestine.

A deficiency in this vitamin may cause pernicious anemia. This is a type of anemia caused by a decreased ability to absorb B-12 efficiently. Pernicious anemia is more common in people with autoimmune disorders and inflammatory or digestive diseases.

Symptoms of vitamin B-12 deficiency include:

fatigue and weakness in extremities

dizziness

shortness of breath

weight loss

nausea or poor appetite

sore, red, or swollen tongue

pale or yellowish skin

Left untreated for too long, vitamin B-12 deficiency may cause irreversible damage to the nervous system. More severe symptoms include:

difficulty walking

muscle weakness

irritability

dementia

depression

memory loss

Your doctor can order a variety of blood tests to check for vitamin B-12 deficiency. Blood tests can check for:

levels of vitamin B-12

methylmalonic acid

intrinsic factor antibodies

Treatment may be provided in a variety of ways, including:

increasing vitamin B-12 sources in the diet

taking vitamin B-12 supplements

receiving vitamin B-12 injections

blood transfusions

Vitamin B-12 is commonly found in red meat and animal products. Vegetarian sources include fortified plant-based milks and nutritional yeast.

According to Harvard's School of Public Health, about 1 billion people worldwide don't get enough vitamin D. People with darker skin tones are at a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones. It helps the body maintain the right levels of calcium in order to regulate the development of teeth and bones. A lack of this nutrient can lead to stunted or poor bone growth. Osteoporosis, caused by a lack of calcium and vitamin D, can lead to porous and fragile bones that break very easily.

Vitamin D is only found naturally in a few foods. Foods with vitamin D include:

Many dairy products and plant milks in the United States are fortified with vitamin D.

The best source of vitamin D is sunlight. According to the NIH, some research suggests that 5 to 30 minutes of midday sun exposure twice a week on the face, arms, neck, or back can provide you with enough vitamin D.

Although recommended, sunscreen does hinder vitamin D absorption from sunlight through the skin. Spend a few minutes in the sun prior to sunscreen for optimal vitamin D absorption.

Calcium helps your body develop strong bones and teeth. It also helps your heart, nerves, and muscles work the way they should.

A calcium deficiency often doesn't show symptoms right away, but it can lead to serious health problems over time. If you aren't consuming enough calcium, your body may use the calcium from your bones instead. This leads to bone loss.

While some experts believe that calcium deficiencies may be related to low bone mass and weakening of bones due to osteoporosis, it's a topic of much debate. According to WHO, evidence does support the importance of calcium with vitamin D for bone health in older populations. Evidence is weaker for younger populations.

Population study research by WHO also reveals that countries with lower calcium intake don't have high rates of bone diseases. But countries with higher calcium intake have higher rates of hip fractures. In these countries, like the United States, high protein intake and lack of exercise can contribute to poor calcium status and bone health.

Calcium deficiency can lead to convulsions and abnormal heart rhythms. These can even be life-threatening. Postmenopausal women experience greater bone loss due to changing hormones and have more trouble absorbing calcium.

The best sources of calcium are:

dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese

calcium-set tofu

small fish with bones

Vegetables such as kale and broccoli also have calcium. Many cereals and grains are calcium-fortified.

The main causes of nutritional deficiencies include a poor diet that lacks essential nutrients, a disease or medication that impairs absorption, or both. The body is able to store some nutrients, so a deficiency may not be caught until the body has been without the nutrient for some time.

A number of diseases and conditions can lead to an iron deficiency. These include:

Pregnancy can also cause an iron deficiency if the body diverts iron to the fetus.

Researchers have found associations between bariatric surgery, which reduces the size of the stomach to achieve weight loss, and nutritional deficiency.

People who are candidates for bariatric surgery may already be nutrient-deficient due to poor diet. Talk to your doctor and dietitian before and after the surgery to set up a thorough nutrition plan.

The symptoms of a nutritional deficiency depend on which nutrient the body lacks. However, there are some general symptoms you might experience. These can include:

You may display all of these symptoms or only groups of them.

Over time, most people adapt to the symptoms. This can cause the condition to go undiagnosed. Schedule a checkup with your doctor if you experience prolonged periods of fatigue, weakness, or poor concentration. These symptoms could be a sign of the beginning of a serious deficiency.

Your doctor will discuss your diet and eating habits with you if they suspect you have a nutritional deficiency. They'll ask what symptoms you're experiencing. Make sure to mention if you've experienced any periods of constipation or diarrhea, or if blood has been present in your stool.

Your nutritional deficiency may also be diagnosed during routine blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC). This is often how doctors identify anemia.

The treatment for a nutritional deficiency depends on the type and severity of the deficiency. Your doctor will find out how severe the deficiency is as well as the likelihood of long-term problems caused by the lack of nutrients.

Before deciding on a treatment plan, they may order further testing to see if there's any other damage. Symptoms usually fade when the correct diet is followed or nutrient is supplemented.

Dietary changes

A doctor may advise you on how to change your eating habits in the case of a minor deficiency. For example, people with iron deficiency anemia should include more meat, eggs, dark meat poultry, vegetables, and legumes in their diet.

Your doctor may refer you to a dietitian if your deficiency is more severe. They may recommend keeping a food diary for a few weeks. When you meet with the dietitian, you'll go over the diary and identify any changes you should make.

Typically, you'll meet with your dietitian regularly. Eventually, you may have a blood test to confirm that you're no longer deficient.

Supplements

The United States' official dietary guidelines recommend that you get most of your nutrients from food. In some cases, you may need to take supplements or a multivitamin. It may also be necessary to take an additional supplement to help your body absorb the supplements, such as taking calcium and vitamin D together.

The frequency and dosage of a supplement depends on how severe the deficiency is. Your doctor or dietitian can determine this.

Talk to your doctor before taking any nutritional supplements.

Parenteral administration

In very severe cases - such as when a nutritional deficiency doesn't respond to oral medications or vitamins - it may be necessary to give the nutrient parenterally, or through the veins or muscles. This can carry the risk of additional side effects. It's usually done in a hospital.

Parenteral iron, for example, can cause side effects that include:

In rare cases, it can even cause a severe allergic reaction.

Once you've been given the treatment, your doctor will have you do a repeat blood test to confirm that it was successful. You may need to attend the hospital for repeat appointments until you're no longer deficient.

Most problems caused by nutritional deficiencies stop once you're no longer deficient. But in some cases, there may be lasting damage. This usually only occurs when the deficiency has been severe and has lasted a long time.

For example, a prolonged thiamine deficiency can be associated with stunted growth or depression. Nutritional deficiencies in children can be serious and lead to lasting negative health outcomes.

If you're experiencing symptoms and are concerned that you're not obtaining enough of a certain nutrient, talk to your doctor. They can discuss your diet with you and help you figure out whether you should make some dietary changes or start taking supplements.

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The body requires many different vitamins and minerals that are crucial for both body development and preventing disease. These vitamins and minerals are often referred to as micronutrients. They aren't produced naturally in the body, so you have to get them from your diet.

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