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It is essential to ensure we consume the right balance of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals for a healthy lifestyle.
Nutritional deficiencies occur when the body lacks adequate vitamins, minerals, or other necessary nutrients. (Representative Image: Shutterstock)
We frequently underestimate the importance of maintaining our well-being, which can manifest in both our physical and mental states. It is essential to ensure we consume the right balance of nutrients, vitamins and minerals for a healthy lifestyle. Yet, obtaining these essentials from our diet can sometimes be difficult. Nutritional deficiencies occur when the body lacks adequate vitamins, minerals, or other necessary nutrients. Our bodies have natural warning systems to alert us to these deficiencies and symptoms such as dry skin, brittle nails, or excessive hair loss are signs we should heed.
Signs of nutrition deficiency
Persistent fatigue can be a sign of nutritional deficiencies, particularly in iron and vitamin D. These nutrients are essential for energy production and their lack can lead to overall tiredness and weakness.
Excessive hair loss may indicate deficiencies in iron, biotin, or protein. These nutrients are crucial for hair health and their absence can weaken hair follicles and lead to increased shedding.
Dry and flaky skin can result from a lack of essential fatty acids, vitamin A, or vitamin E. These nutrients are vital for skin hydration and maintaining a healthy barrier function.
Weak, brittle nails that chip easily can signal deficiencies in biotin, zinc, or protein. Biotin is particularly important for nail growth, while zinc and protein support overall nail strength.
Frequent mouth sores or cracks at the corners of the mouth may indicate deficiencies in B vitamins, especially riboflavin (B2) and niacin (B3). These vitamins are essential for maintaining healthy oral mucous membranes.
Difficulty seeing in low light or experiencing night blindness can be linked to a deficiency in vitamin A. This vitamin is crucial for producing rhodopsin, a pigment necessary for low-light vision.
- Frequent Cramps or Muscle Weakness
Regular muscle cramps or weakness can suggest low levels of potassium, magnesium, or calcium. These minerals are essential for muscle function, and their deficiency can lead to discomfort.
Changes in mood, such as irritability or mood swings, may result from deficiencies in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, or certain B vitamins. These nutrients are important for brain health and emotional regulation.
If cuts and bruises take a long time to heal, it could indicate deficiencies in vitamin C or protein. Vitamin C is vital for collagen production, while protein supports tissue repair.
- Increased Susceptibility to Illness
A weakened immune system can make you more susceptible to infections, often due to a lack of essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, D, and zinc. These nutrients play a critical role in maintaining a strong immune response.
