What it means
Planned weight loss through diet and exercise can improve health in people with obesity. Unplanned weight loss, especially 5% or more of body weight in 6 to 12 months, may come from poor intake, depression, cancer, an overactive thyroid, diabetes, infection or trouble chewing or swallowing. A rapid drop of a kilogram or more over a day or two usually means fluid loss.
For the nurse
Weigh the client at the same time each day on the same scale. Report unplanned weight loss and screen for poor nutrition.
At a glance
| Spanish | pérdida de peso |
|---|---|
| Also written | weight-loss |
Related terms
nutrition
The intake and use of food and its nutrients for energy, growth and repair of the body.
malnutrition
Poor nutrition from too little, too much or the wrong balance of nutrients.
hydration
The amount of water in the body, or the giving of fluids to keep the body's water at a healthy level.