The body requires several vitamins and minerals that are crucial for the development and protection of our body against various diseases. Also referred to as micronutrients, these elements play a major role in keeping us healthy and fit, and their deficiency can result in several health issues.
Nutritional deficiencies occur when the body fails to absorb nutrients or doesn’t get food that consists of the required minerals and vitamins. The main issues faced due to a nutritional deficiency include skin disorders, digestion problems, dementia, defective bone growth and more.
Iron deficiency
The most common nutrient deficiency is the lack of iron in the body. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, a blood disorder that leads to weakness, fatigue and other symptoms. Iron is available in foods such as red meat, dark leafy vegetables, and egg yolks.
When a person is deficient in iron, the body creates lesser red blood cells. The RBCs produced are paler and smaller than healthy blood cells. Also, they are less efficient at passing oxygen to various body organs and tissues.
Vitamin A constitutes of a group of nutrients that are significant for good health and functioning of the eyes and strengthens the immune system. It also plays a major role in keeping up the reproductive health of both men and women.
Calcium is the main nutrient used in the development of strong teeth and bones. Additionally, it also promotes better functioning of the nerves, heart, and muscles.
Even though the symptoms of nutritional deficiency depends on the particular nutrient your body lacks, here are a few common symptoms that should alert you to see a doctor and find out the root cause of the issue:
The above-mentioned symptoms should ring a bell for you to visit your doctor. Nutritional deficiencies should be checked on time to avoid serious health issues. On seeing a doctor, you will be asked about your eating habits, daily lifestyle and medical history. A physical examination is conducted followed by a series of blood tests to find the cause of weakness or other prolonged symptoms reported.
