Which of the following best describes malnourishment?

Malnourishment refers to a condition that arises from an insufficient intake of essential nutrients, which can lead to a variety of health problems. This can occur even if an individual is consuming enough calories but lacks vital vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, or carbohydrates necessary for proper bodily function.

For example, someone may eat a lot of calories but still suffer from deficiencies if their diet is not well-rounded. This can result in stunted growth in children, weakened immune systems, and other health issues.

In comparison, a complete lack of food would indicate starvation rather than malnourishment, while a balanced diet involves an adequate intake of all nutrients and would not be considered malnourished. Excessive calorie consumption typically leads to obesity rather than nutrient deficiency, which falls outside the scope of malnutrition as it relates to a lack of necessary nutrients. Thus, insufficient intake of essential nutrients encapsulates the core concept of malnourishment effectively.