Malnutrition is a serious condition that happens when you don't get enough food or nutrients. Many foreign countries have a high population of malnourished people, especially in underdeveloped countries where food is scarce, or where there might be a famine. However, malnutrition can affect anyone who isn’t getting enough food. The major reason that an American teenager would be affected by malnutrition is if she has an eating disorder, like anorexia or bulimia.

Malnutrition affects the body in many harmful ways. The less you eat, and the fewer nutrients your body absorbs, the more dangerous your condition will be. Some signs of malnutrition include:

• dizziness
• inability to concentrate
• fatigue
• weak immune system
• decaying teeth
• dry skin
• joint problems
• stunted or poor growth
• fragile bones that break easily
• menstruation stops
• thin down-like hair grows on the body

These are all serious symptoms that need to be treated immediately. If you have an eating disorder, or aren't getting enough food for any reason, talk to your doctor immediately. He or she will be able to get you healthy again, but it will take time. If you continue to under-nourish yourself, you run the risk of getting very sick, of having to stay in the hospital for a long time, or death.