Which term describes insufficient nutritional intake for bodily needs?

The term that describes insufficient nutritional intake for bodily needs is malnutrition. This term encompasses the condition resulting from an unbalanced diet, which can lead to deficiencies or excesses in nutrient intake. Malnutrition specifically refers to inadequate intake of essential nutrients, leading to diminished bodily functions and overall health deterioration.

Understanding malnutrition is crucial in clinical practice, as it can manifest in various forms, such as undernutrition or specific nutrient deficiencies. It indicates a need for dietary assessment and intervention to meet the nutritional requirements of an individual. Recognizing this term is essential for health care providers to effectively identify and address dietary insufficiencies in patients.