Which statement best describes Undernutrition?

• A. Insufficient caloric intake
• B. Excess caloric intake
• C. Adequate caloric intake with poor protein
• D. Overhydration

Answer: (A)

Undernutrition means not getting enough energy to meet the body’s daily needs. When caloric intake is insufficient, the body uses its stored energy, which leads to weight loss, muscle wasting, fatigue, and impaired immune function—a pattern you’ll often see in older adults who have poor appetite, dental problems, or other barriers to eating. Among the options, the description of insufficient caloric intake best captures what undernutrition is.

The other statements describe different nutritional situations. Excess caloric intake points to overnutrition or obesity. Adequate caloric intake with poor protein suggests a specific form of protein-energy malnutrition, where protein is lacking despite enough overall calories, which is not the general definition of undernutrition. Overhydration relates to fluid balance rather than inadequate caloric or nutrient intake.