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Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is the key to avoiding many types of malnutrition. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers personalized dietary requirements through MyPyramid, its recently revised food guide pyramid. Following this guide can help to ensure that the body receives all the nutrients it requires. For those who are aware that they may suffer from malabsorption of a specific nutrient, it may be possible to receive those nutrients through regular oral or parenteral supplements.

Loss of appetite can sometimes be prevented by putting more emphasis on the act of eating. For example, taste sensitivity can sometimes be enhanced by chewing food longer or using different flavor elements such as lemon juice or flavored vinegars. Low-salt or low-sugar diets can be enhanced by using salt and sugar substitutes. However, people are encouraged to consult a physician before introducing new substitutes into their diet. Salt substitutes often contain potassium, which can interfere with some medications and diseases, increasing the risk of hyperkalemia. It is advisable to check with a physician before using salt substitutes. And some sugar substitutes may not be appropriate during pregnancy or for people with other conditions.

It can be especially difficult for older people who live alone to receive adequate amounts of nutrients. Dietitians advise that older people make an effort to cook simple meals and keep healthful snacks, such as nuts and fruit, around the house. It is also beneficial to keep an active social life, including events that involve food, such as lunch or dinner appointments.  

Prevention of obesity requires a healthy lifestyle, including a well-balanced diet that is high in fiber, and low in fat and refined sugars. Time after time, studies have shown that weight loss and exercise can significantly reduce the risk of developing serious diseases. It is especially important to take steps toward preventing obesity in children. Parents are urged to provide their children with healthy meals and to encourage an active lifestyle. Simply increasing the amount of physical activity can help children to achieve a healthy weight without dieting, which can deprive children of nutrients and calories that are essential to growth and development.