Malnutrition (Part 1)

Malnutrition is a disparity between the amount of food and other nutrients that the body needs and the amount that it is receiving. This imbalance is most frequently associated with undernutrition, the primary focus of this article, but it may also be due to over-nutrition.

http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/conditions/malnutrition/

Signs and Symptoms
General malnutrition often develops slowly, over months or years. As the body’s store of nutrients is depleted, changes begin to happen at the cellular level, affecting biochemical processes and decreasing the body’s ability to fight infections.

http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/conditions/malnutrition/

Common Symptoms
The most common symptoms of malnutrition include significant weight loss, fatigue and dizziness. These can become apparent at any point after the lack of nutrients is realized by the body. 
Oral Symptoms
Swollen and/or bleeding gums are the first oral symptoms of malnutrition. As the malnutrition continues, the teeth may begin to decay. 
Musculoskeletal Symptoms
Fragile bones, osteoporosis and muscle loss and/or weakness are symptoms of malnutrition. When calcium or vitamin D are the nutrients lacking, these symptoms may manifest shortly after the body becomes malnourished. 
Mental Symptoms
Malnutrition can cause a slowed reaction time. However, in the elderly population, malnutrition may cause dementia and/or memory loss. 
Decreased Organ Function
As malnutrition ravages the body, the organs may begin to function less efficiently. This can lead to heart problems, decreased liver function, kidney failure, decreased lung capacity, intestinal problems, stomach irregularities and abnormal menstrual cycles in females. 
Abdominal Symptoms
Ascites, which manifests as a swollen or bloated abdomen, is a sign of malnutrition. This condition is exacerbated when the liver, kidneys or intestinal tract is affected. 
Dry Skin
People with malnutrition may develop abnormally dry skin, despite the use of lotions and creams. In severe cases, the skin may begin to crack. 

http://www.livestrong.com/article/18046-signs-symptoms-malnutrition/#ixzz26NPxXDff

Other Symptoms:

• Anemia

• Weight loss, decreased muscle mass, and weakness

• Edema

• Hair that has lost its pigment

• Brittle and malformed (spooned) nails

• Chronic diarrhea

• Slow wound healing

• Bone and joint pain

• Growth retardation (in children)

• Mental changes such as confusion and irritability

http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/conditions/malnutrition/

** These symptoms and signs are, by no means, the be all, end all list.  These are just ones that I have found during my research.**

Major Problems of SED

According to "Eating Disorder Treatment" online, They list 4 major problems caused by Selective Eating Disorder.  They are:

           (1) Malnutrition

           (2) Social Isolation

           (3) Anxiety & Depression

           (4) Obesity & High Blood Pressure

During the following weeks, I will discuss each of these, and how I am affected by them.