Malnutrition: The Tripple Burden and the Immune System

Abstract

Studies in the last two decades show the relationship between malnutrition and the debility of some diseases. While some scholars believe it contributes to the virulence of infectious diseases, others opine that it plays a role in the deteriorating conditions of some metabolic or noncommunicable diseases. In recent times, the term malnutrition has been expanded to cover a broader spectrum, ranging from the double burden, which includes undernutrition and overnutrition, to the triple burden, in which the duo and micronutrient deficiency are considered. This review elaborates on the broader definition of malnutrition, the determinants of malnutrition, the triple burden of malnutrition coupled with the tandem effects of malnutrition on the immune system. Where possible, we used examples to clarify and conceptualize this review, bringing in some real-life context in which these burdens are applicable. We discussed the cellular implications of the micronutrient deficiencies and buttressed using body mass index as a rough guide in estimating overweight and underweight.