Most people get almost all the nutrients they need to function from their diet. If not, vitamin supplements act as a safety net to fill in the gaps in what you’re not eating.
But did you know that even while taking a multivitamin or eating a balanced diet, you can still get a vitamin deficiency? That’s because everyone is different and our bodies are different. A generic multivitamin may not address a significant deficiency of a particular nutrient. That way, if a vitamin deficiency appears, it can be detected and your diet adjusted accordingly.
What is vitamin deficiency?
Avitaminosis is exactly what the name suggests. The body can function without a specific nutrient deficiency. They are incredibly common.It is estimated to be 2 billion people worldwide I have a vitamin deficiency.
vitamin deficiency They fall into two categories: primary defects and secondary defects. Primary vitamin deficiency means that you need to eat more foods that contain vitamins. In this case, diets can often be adjusted to ensure that these needs are met. Alternatively, take supplements if you have dietary restrictions that prevent you from eating these foods, as in the case of food allergies.
Secondary defects occur when the body is not absorbing nutrients As it should be. This can be caused by an underlying condition such as: celiac disease again cystic fibrosisAdditionally, secondary deficiencies result from the body absorbing less nutrients as we age. Malabsorption then worsens and can lead to other deficiencies, as in the case of calcium and vitamin D. Older people whose bodies stop producing vitamin D can develop calcium deficiency. Vitamin D is essential for absorption of calcium.
Common signs of possible vitamin deficiency
Vitamin deficiency is common. However, symptoms that may be associated with vitamin deficiencies are not always present. Common signs of vitamin deficiency that you may be ignoring are:
- Malaise
one of the most common A symptom of vitamin deficiency is fatigue Or feeling weak or tired. This can be caused by many things, so it’s difficult to distinguish between symptoms caused by something else. Lack of sleepIf chronic fatigue persists no matter how much you sleep and rest, it may indicate a vitamin deficiency.
Fatigue indicates a deficiency of::
2. Muscle weakness and pain
Another common sign of vitamin deficiency is muscle weakness or spasms. is difficult. Vitamin D for muscle weaknessHowever, some B vitamins and magnesium can also contribute to debilitation.
Muscle weakness and joint pain may indicate a deficiency of:
Addressing your diet to see where it’s lacking is the first step in dealing with a vitamin deficiency.
3. Severe hair loss
Hair loss can occur when some reasons like heredity, medical conditions, hair treatments, hormonal imbalances. A lack of key hair-growth nutrients can also be to blame. .
It’s important to note that taking vitamins won’t make your hair thicker unless the hair loss or damage is due to a vitamin deficiency. is. Hair-growth vitamins can only help you stay healthy if you’re deficient, but they’re not magic pills. Focusing on a diet that supports hair health is always good.
4. Dry skin
Even after using a moisturizer and using everything you need, you may still have dry skin and dandruff. Getting enough of the right vitamins and minerals is essential for healthy, hydrated skin and scalp. Scaly patches, bumps, and dandruff all point to possible vitamin deficiencies.
If you have dry skin, you may be deficient in the following vitamins:
5. Slow wound healing and a weak immune system
Several vitamins are essential for a functioning immune system: vitamins E, C, and K. Vitamin K is a nutrient Required for the formation of blood clots. Regular cuts can become a big problem if your body doesn’t have enough. This also applies to internal bleeding, which is difficult to identify without medical intervention.
Vitamin deficiency does not only determine the duration of bleeding. It also affects how long it takes for a wound to heal. Vitamin C with anti-inflammatory properties useful properties close the wound. Deficiency slows tissue repair.
Nutrient deficiencies in these vitamins can affect the immune system and ability to heal wounds.
6. Mood changes
Vitamin deficiencies can also affect your mood.Most people are familiar with Seasonal Affective Disorder. This is a form of depression that occurs when there is little sunlight to provide vitamin D. vitamin D deficiency It is not limited to winter season.It is estimated that 42% of Americans Not enough vitamin D.
Vitamin B6 deficiency has also been found to contribute to mental health conditions such as: anxiety and depressionMore research is needed, but some studies suggest Intake of vitamin B6 Supplements produce chemicals that can help reduce symptoms A messenger that suppresses brain impulsesit has a calming effect.
7. Change of vision
In addition to the natural age-related changes in vision, vitamin A deficiency can contribute to vision problems. Vitamin A plays an important role in vision By aiding the production of pigment in the retina. Without enough vitamin A, production stops, leading to night blindness and decreased vision in low light and low light.
Night blindness can occur independently Do not start taking supplements unless you know the cause, as it can cause vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, that is, stored in the body’s fat stores.excess is called vitamin A poisoningIt is characterized by symptoms such as headache, joint pain and nausea.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant It is essential for eye health. A deficiency can lead to vision loss over time.
8. Tingling fingers and toes
A lesser-known warning sign of possible vitamin deficiency is tingling in the hands, legs, and feet. Deficiency is vitamin B12plays a role in our nervous system by making myelinMyelin is a protective layer that wraps around nerves. Without enough vitamin B12, the body doesn’t produce enough myelin, making nerves more susceptible to damage. Then you feel tingling or pins and needles in your limbs.
Nutrients related to swollen limbs:
If the tingling or numbness persists, see your doctor right away to find out the cause and develop a treatment plan.
Too long; didn’t read?
anyone can do it lack of vitaminsSome symptoms are so common that they are often overlooked. However, symptoms should not be ignored, especially those affecting the ability to move, lift and see. Lifestyle and diet changes are the best ways to stop the deficiency. Taking supplements is also common. but.
If other unrelated symptoms persist, consult your doctor. They can perform blood tests to definitively diagnose and create a treatment plan.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. If you have any questions about your medical condition or health purposes, be sure to consult a physician or other qualified Talk to your healthcare provider.