AAFCS Pre-PAC Early Education Practice Test 2026 - Free Early Education Practice Questions and Study Guide

Signs of malnutrition often show up in areas like the lips, gums, and nails, where nutrient status becomes visible in tissues. Cracked lips point to dryness and possible nutrient shortfalls or dehydration; this is a common indicator of poor nutrition. Bleeding gums can reflect insufficient intake of vitamin C and related gum health problems tied to nutrition. Brittle nails can signal deficiencies in protein, iron, zinc, or biotin, all of which can come from not getting enough nutrients or from absorption issues. Clear lips, by contrast, usually indicate normal hydration and adequate nutrition, so they are not a sign of malnutrition. That's why the option describing clear lips is the one that isn't listed as a sign.