09/16/2026
Malnutrition Awareness Week
Malnutrition can affect people of all ages and body sizes—and it isn’t always obvious. A person can be overweight or living with obesity and still have inadequate protein, vitamins, minerals, or other essential nutrients.
Malnutrition may occur when the body does not receive, absorb, or properly utilize the nutrients it needs. Older adults, people with chronic illnesses, individuals recovering from surgery or hospitalization, and those experiencing poor appetite, swallowing difficulties, digestive problems, or significant weight loss may be especially at risk.
Certain medications can also increase the risk of inadequate nutrition. Some medications decrease appetite, cause nausea or diarrhea, change taste, interfere with nutrient absorption, or contribute to specific vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
Examples include:
• GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound), which can significantly decrease appetite and overall food intake
• Metformin, which can contribute to vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use
• Acid-reducing medications such as omeprazole and other proton-pump inhibitors, which may affect absorption of vitamin B12, magnesium, iron, and other nutrients with prolonged use
• Diuretics such as furosemide, which can increase losses of certain electrolytes and nutrients
• Stimulant medications used for ADHD, which may suppress appetite
• Certain antidepressants and other psychiatric medications, which can affect appetite, weight, nausea, or eating patterns
• Some cancer treatments and chemotherapy, which may cause nausea, mouth sores, taste changes, poor appetite, or difficulty maintaining adequate nutrition
This does not mean these medications should be stopped. If taking any of these medications and want to stop you should talk with your healthcare provider first. Many are important and medically necessary. Instead, people taking medications that affect appetite or nutrient status may benefit from closer attention to nutrition and appropriate monitoring.
Signs to watch for include:
• Unintentional weight or muscle loss
• Weakness or persistent fatigue
• Poor appetite or reduced food intake
• Slow wound healing
• Frequent illness or infections
• Loss of strength or mobility
• Changes in hair, skin, or nails
Good nutrition is about much more than calories. Adequate protein, vitamins, minerals, hydration, and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining muscle, supporting the immune system, healing, and healthy aging.
This is particularly important during medical weight loss. Losing weight does not automatically mean someone is well nourished. Preserving muscle, consuming adequate protein, staying hydrated, and meeting vitamin and mineral needs remain important throughout treatment.
During Malnutrition Awareness Week, pay attention to changes in appetite, food intake, weight, muscle mass, strength, and energy levels—especially after starting or changing a medication.
If you or someone you care for is experiencing unexplained weight loss, poor appetite, weakness, difficulty eating, or concerns about nutritional deficiencies, talk with your healthcare provider.
Nutrition is an important part of your health at every age—and at every weight.
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