6. How can malnutrition be prevented?

Malnutrition can be prevented. Monitor your weight and note any unplanned rapid weight loss; if you are concerned, your healthcare professional is the best place to start for an assessment and official diagnosis. Also monitor changes in appetite, food intake and nutritional needs with the support of a healthcare professional. They may recommend you supplement your reduced intake or increased requirements that cannot be met by diet alone with nutrition support solutions e.g. high energy, high protein oral nutritional supplements.

If you have recently become unwell, speak to a dietitian regarding any possible changes in nutritional requirements as they can provide you with an individualised assessment and therapy plan.