Which condition is a consequence of being underweight?

Being underweight can lead to malnutrition, which is a condition resulting from inadequate intake of essential nutrients. When an individual is underweight, they often do not consume enough calories to meet their body's energy requirements, which can lead to deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients. This lack of proper nutrition can compromise immune function, weaken muscle strength, and hinder overall physical and mental health.

In contrast, the other conditions listed are more commonly associated with being overweight or obese rather than underweight. Heart disease is typically a concern for those with high body mass indices, as is type 2 diabetes, which is linked to excess body fat and insulin resistance. Therefore, while underweight individuals may face a variety of health issues, malnutrition is specifically a direct consequence of inadequate nutrient intake that results from being underweight.