When you think of malnutrition, you’re likely to think that it is limited to those living in developing countries or low income urban and rural families. But malnutrition is more common than you think, and those at risk may surprise you. In fact, it’s common to be overweight and have nutritional deficiencies. Malnutrition also becomes more common as we age. Good nutrition is vital to good health. If you don’t get the protein, calcium, fluid, vitamins and minerals you need, it will negatively impact your health. Too little calcium and protein affects bones and muscle, making it harder to do everyday tasks, increasing the likelihood of muscle strains, decreasing strength, and increasing fall risk. Poor nutrition also makes it harder for your body to heal and fight infections and can harm your organs. For example, vitamin and mineral deficiencies can accelerate vision loss caused by glaucoma and macular degeneration. Nutrient deficiencies can impair mental functions, and inadequate fluid intake can negatively impact kidney function.
The Nutritional Screening Initiative developed the following checklist to determine if you’re at risk for malnutrition:

1. I have an illness or condition that made me change the kind or amount of food I eat. (2 points)
2. I eat fewer than 2 meals daily. (3 points)
3. I eat few fruits or vegetables or milk products. (2 points)
4. I have 3 or more drinks of beer, liquor, or wine almost daily. (2 points)
5. I have tooth or mouth problems that make it hard for me to eat. (2 points)
6. I don’t always have enough money to buy the food I need. (4 points)
7. I eat alone most of the time. (1 point)
8. I take 3 or more prescribed or over-the-counter medications a day. (1 point)
9. Without wanting to, I have lost or gained more than 10 pounds in the last 6 months. (2 points)
10. I am not always physically able to shop, cook, and/or feed myself. (2 points)

Total your nutritional score. If it’s: 0-2 Good 3-5 Moderate nutritional risk. 6 or higher High nutritional risk.

You can reduce your nutritional risk by making smart food choices and taking care of your teeth. If you are at high nutritional risk, an oral supplement or high protein smoothies/shakes may help. Consult your health care provider if you have unplanned weight changes, a poor appetite, or other problems that affect eating. Find out if you’re eligible for help paying for food at BenefitsCheckUp.org/SNAP.

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