Which term describes a persistent lack of proper nutrients due to insufficient intake or impaired absorption?

• A. Dehydration
• B. Celiac disease
• C. Malnutrition
• D. Obesity

Answer: (C)

Malnutrition describes a persistent lack of proper nutrients due to insufficient intake or impaired absorption. It covers situations where someone isn’t getting enough calories or essential vitamins and minerals, either because food intake is too low or because the body can’t absorb nutrients properly. Dehydration is about fluid loss, not nutrients. Celiac disease is a specific condition that causes malabsorption, but it’s not the general term for nutrient deficiency. Obesity reflects overnutrition with excess body fat, not a deficiency. Malnutrition is the most accurate term for the described situation.