How Can Vomiting Lead to
Nutritional Disturbances?

What Nutrients Does the Body Need to Thrive?

Nutrients consist of numerous substances that are essential to good health. In general, there are six categories of essential nutrients, including:

• Protein – Found in meats, dairy products, and beans, protein is integral for the healthy development of bones and muscle. It’s also key in the formation of hormones and helps support a healthy immune system.

• Vitamins – Vitamins ensure that bodily tissues remain strong, while also enhancing immune function and fuelling metabolic processes. Vitamins can be fat-soluble (A,D,E, and K) or water-soluble (C, B, and folic acid).

• Minerals – Major minerals include calcium, magnesium, and potassium, while trace minerals include zinc, iron, and manganese. Major minerals are important for maintaining good bone health, while trace minerals can manage blood pressure and carry oxygen to different parts of the body.

• Carbs – Carbs are crucial for ensuring the body has the energy it needs to thrive. Complex carbs also help with numerous bodily processes, including the function of brain, immune, and digestive systems.

• Fats – Certain types of fats are actually good for you. Healthy fats provide energy, but they also ensure optimum cell growth and assist brain function, among many other benefits.

• Water – All the cells in the body must have water to function correctly. Water also ensures proper digestion and helps rid the body of toxins. As a result, water intake is just as important as nutrient intake.

Malnutrition occurs when a body does not take in sufficient nutrients. This health condition can lead to issues like diminished muscle mass, low body weight, decreased heart rate, fatigue, recurring infections, and swelling. The effects of malnutrition can often be reversed, provided the person affected begins receiving sufficient nutrition before serious health issues result.

What Causes Prolonged Vomiting in People?

Vomiting only leads to nutritional deficiencies when it occurs over an extended period of time. Accordingly, the following are some conditions that cause repeated vomiting in people:

• Pregnancy
• Bulimia
• Gastroenteritis
• Migraines
• Inner ear infections
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Inflamed gallbladder

Certain cancer treatments and medications can also cause frequent vomiting. This includes radiation treatment and chemotherapy.

How Can You Ensure Sufficient Nutrient Intake?

When malnutrition is severe, doctors must take careful steps to provide nutrients to patients. Because it can be dangerous to introduce food to a severely malnourished person, medical personnel will often provide supplemental nutrition until the person can resume eating normally.

In addition to eating a healthy diet that consists of all important nutrients, you must also address any underlying conditions that could contribute to repeated bouts of vomiting. For instance, doctors can provide medication to treat migraines, which will then limit nausea. They can also provide pregnant women with effective methods for treating the morning sickness that often accompanies pregnancy. A doctor can also help patients address issues related to eating disorders and substance abuse.