6 Most Common Nutrient Deficiencies
Nutrient deficiencies affect people of all ages and appear differently in different ethnic groups. If left unchecked, these inadequacies can lead to major health problems and an increased risk of certain diseases. As a result, it is recommended that you eat a well-balanced diet that includes all of the important elements. Nutrient deficits also limit the body’s ability to grow to its full potential.
While a consistently balanced diet is normally sufficient to provide the body with the nutrients it requires to function at its best, some people, depending on their age and overall health, may require a larger amount of particular vitamins for body development and illness prevention. Anemia, scurvy, and rickets can all be caused by nutritional deficits.
IRON
“Iron deficiency can arise in a variety of ways, including insufficient ingestion of iron-rich foods, poor iron absorption, or iron loss through excessive blood loss. as well as during developmental stages of life like puberty, pregnancy, or breastfeeding,” Kriegler explains. Others who are at an increased risk of getting an iron shortage include those who have specific stomach or intestinal problems that either cause or worsen an iron shortage.
General weariness, headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, muscle weakness, pale skin color, and chest pain are a result of all symptoms of iron deficiency anemia. Iron levels in pregnant women should be tested on a regular basis, as expectant moms are at a higher risk of having this illness.
VITAMIN D
Bone health necessitates the use of vitamin D. People who don’t get enough of it are more likely to lose bone density. Which puts them at risk for osteoporosis and fractures. Breastfed newborns, elderly adults, those with darker complexion, and persons with certain diseases such as renal or liver disease are more likely to be vitamin D deficient.
Vitamin D is not produced by the body and must be obtained via the sun, meals, or supplements. Salmon, trout, swordfish, eggs, mushrooms, and fortified foods like milk are all good sources of vitamin D.
Iodine Deficiency
Thyroid hormone, which is crucial for regulating metabolic changes, growth, and repair, is produced by iodine. As a result it might cause growth problems and mental impairment in youngsters. Iodine is abundant in fish, eggs, dairy products, and seaweed.
It is critical to remember that lack of availability to specific nutrients is not the main cause of iodine deficiency. Following a fad diet is now one of the most common causes of nutritional deficiencies.
Excessive consumption of any vitamin might be hazardous to your health. Before introducing supplements to your children’s diet, always seek advice from a professional.
Calcium Deficiency
Although calcium is the most abundant element in the body and is well-known for its function in keeping healthy bones and teeth, many individuals, especially as they age, do not get enough of it.
Calcium also functions as a signaling molecule. Your heart, muscles, and nerves would not be able to function without it.
Calcium levels in your blood are strictly control, and any excess is deposit in your bones. If you don’t get enough calcium, your bones will release it.
As a result, osteoporosis, characterized by softer and more fragile bones, is the most common indication of calcium shortage.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is one of the eight types of B vitamins, and it aids in the formation of red blood cells, improves brain function, and provides DNA building blocks. Vegans, persons with intestinal disorders that impede vitamin absorption, elderly folks, and those taking long-term heartburn medication are all at risk for vitamin B12 insufficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency has symptoms that are comparable to anemia.
Magnesium
Every cell in the body need magnesium. The mineral aids in the conversion of food into energy, as well as the regulation of the nervous system and the production of new proteins. Magnesium works as an enzyme to maintain regular blood pressure, strong bones, and a steady heart beat. It’s abundant in spinach and other greens, as well as almonds, avocados, and black beans. Excessive alcohol, diabetes, breastfeeding, and pregnancy is one of the risk factors for magnesium insufficiency.
Get Tested
If you’re experiencing symptoms of nutrient deficiencies , your healthcare provider can request a blood test to assess your vital nutrient levels. To determine if a specific nutrient shortage exists, an individual blood test can be performed. A comprehensive nutrition panel, on the other hand, is the most effective technique to assess your overall health based on vitamin, nutrient, and enzyme levels.
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