Why is overnutrition a form of malnutrition?

Answer

Malnutrition is a broad term that literally means 'poor nutrition.' It refers to any condition where a person's intake of nutrients and energy is out of balance. This definition encompasses two main categories: undernutrition (not getting enough) and overnutrition (getting too much). Overnutrition is considered a form of malnutrition because it represents an imbalance in nutrient intake that adversely affects health. Specifically, it involves the over-consumption of certain nutrients, such as calories, fats, or sugars, which can lead to obesity and chronic non-communicable diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. Furthermore, individuals with overnutrition can still suffer from micronutrient deficiencies (hidden hunger) if they consume calorie-dense but nutrient-poor foods, further qualifying it as a state of 'mal' or bad nutrition.