What symptom suggests malnutrition?

What symptom suggests malnutrition?

• A. Weight gain
• B. Hair loss
• C. Fatigue
• D. Weight loss

Answer: (D)

Malnutrition means not getting enough nutrients to meet the body's needs, so the body starts breaking down its stores and losing mass. The most direct and reliable clue among the options is weight loss, because it shows an energy and protein deficit happening over time. Fatigue and hair loss can occur with malnutrition, but they are nonspecific and can result from many other causes. Weight gain does not signal malnutrition and can reflect adequate or excessive intake or fluid shifts. So, weight loss is the symptom best indicating malnutrition.

Malnutrition means not getting enough nutrients to meet the body's needs, so the body starts breaking down its stores and losing mass. The most direct and reliable clue among the options is weight loss, because it shows an energy and protein deficit happening over time. Fatigue and hair loss can occur with malnutrition, but they are nonspecific and can result from many other causes. Weight gain does not signal malnutrition and can reflect adequate or excessive intake or fluid shifts. So, weight loss is the symptom best indicating malnutrition.