Malnutrition Awareness Week 2018

This year marks the first ever UK Malnutrition Awareness Week, launched by BAPEN and the Malnutrition Task Force. Malnutrition Awareness Week aims to raise awareness of malnutrition and dehydration, particularly among older people in the UK – one in 10 people aged over 65 is at risk of malnutrition or already malnourished.

It is important to spot the signs of malnutrition and dehydration as soon as possible, to ensure early intervention can be made.

Signs could include:

• Unintentional weight loss
• Clothes, jewellery or dentures becoming loose or ill-fitting over time
• Tiredness or low energy
• Loss of appetite or interest in food

If you are concerned that you, or someone that you know is malnourished, or at risk, take a look at these tips to get you started:

• Access the BAPEN self-screening tool for malnutrition
• Talk to someone about your concerns and seek support to have access to regular, nourishing meals
• The Malnutrition food fact sheet by the British Dietetic Association is free and provides some tips to help you
• Always consider other health conditions that may need to be taken into consideration when making changes to your or someone else’s diet – speak to a GP or a dietitian
• Book an appointment with a GP to check for any underlying health problems and vitamin and mineral deficiencies

Make sure you follow the week on social media, using #MAW2018, to keep up to date and raise awareness.

About Iris Fornefeld:

I am a registered dietitian with an interest in health through diet and lifestyle, focussing on corporate and public health training. I am driven and dedicated to my work and believe that flexibility, reliability and a creative approach contribute to providing an excellent service. I am passionate about food and cooking, culture and community.