Vitamins and minerals are paramount to maintain and promote bodily functions. Read to find out if you are experiencing signs of vitamin deficiency.
In order to function properly, our body needs to be nourished with the right amount of vitamins and minerals. When the delicate balance of vitamins in our body is altered, you might experience some symptoms that we can identify and may allow you to adjust your diet following your vitamin needs.
Symptoms of vitamin deficiency
Vitamin B deficiency: Mouth Ulcers
Vitamin B12 and B9 deficiency can lead to anemia. This condition can cause a decrease in the total amount of red blood cells or produce abnormally large red blood cells, as a consequence of that, their capacity to carry oxygen around the body might be affected.
Anemia can result in fatigue, weakness and poor ability to exercise and this may often be confused with stress.
Research has shown that mouth ulcers were found in 28% of the patients that had deficiencies in vitamins B1, B2 and B6. Mouth ulcers were also linked with low levels of iron.
The solution
Try to include oats, legumes, nuts and seeds to boost your vitamin B levels.
Zinc deficiency: Hair loss
Although seasonal hair shedding is a natural process, if you notice that the amount of hair you are losing is abnormal, it might be a sign of a vitamin deficiency.
Zinc is the most important mineral for protein synthesis and cell division –paramount for hair growth. A zinc deficiency has been linked to patients with hair loss.
Lower iron and vitamins B3 and B7 –or biotin– concentration have also been found in patients that experienced abnormal hair shedding.
The solution
Include greens like spinach and broccoli that are rich in zinc and vitamin B7 –this will improve your skin, hair and nails.
Vitamin A deficiency: Impaired night vision
The leading cause of preventable blindness among adolescents –especially in developing countries– is vitamin A deficiency, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Before complete eye-sight loss, patients with insufficient vitamin A levels might experience poor night vision.
Severe vitamin A deficiency can also affect the ability to produce tears and lead to inflammation and discomfort.
The solution
Vitamin A deficiency is not common in developed countries, but make sure to include leafy greens and orange-colored vegetables like carrots to provide your body with vitamin A.
Vitamin C deficiency: Bleeding gums
Although bleeding gums can be due to rough toothbrushing, it might be a symptom of vitamin C deficiency.
This vitamin helps repair body tissue, and as a result of low vitamin C levels the gum tissue can get weak or inflamed and the blood vessels bleed more often. If the health of your gums is compromised, you could actually experience tooth loss.
The solution
Make sure to include fruits in your diet, as most of them are packed with vitamin C, especially oranges, strawberries and blackcurrants.
The bottom line is that it is imperative to stick to a varied diet –full of vegetables and fruits– to maintain healthy levels of vitamins and minerals in your body. Always remember to consult a professional if you experience extreme symptoms.
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