13 Signs Your Body is Deficient in Nutrients
- Fatigue. One of the most common signs of nutrient deficiency is fatigue. This is because nutrients are essential for energy production. When your body is low in nutrients, it can’t produce as much energy, which can leave you feeling tired and sluggish.
- Muscle weakness. Nutrient deficiencies can also cause muscle weakness. This is because nutrients are needed to build and maintain muscle tissue. When your body is low in nutrients, your muscles can’t function properly, which can lead to weakness and fatigue.
- Pale skin. A pale complexion can be a sign of iron deficiency. Iron is a mineral that helps carry oxygen throughout the body. When your body is low in iron, your skin may appear pale.
- Dry skin. Dry skin can be a sign of vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A is a nutrient that helps keep the skin healthy. When your body is low in vitamin A, your skin may become dry, flaky, and itchy.
- Hair loss. Hair loss can be a sign of a number of nutrient deficiencies, including iron, vitamin B12, and zinc. These nutrients are all essential for healthy hair growth.
- Brittle nails. Brittle nails can be a sign of a number of nutrient deficiencies, including iron, zinc, and biotin. These nutrients are all essential for strong, healthy nails.
- Chapped lips. Chapped lips can be a sign of vitamin B deficiency. Vitamin B helps keep the lips hydrated. When your body is low in vitamin B, your lips may become chapped and cracked.
- Recurring infections. A weakened immune system can make you more susceptible to infections. Nutrient deficiencies can weaken the immune system, making you more likely to get sick.
- Constipation. Constipation can be a sign of a number of nutrient deficiencies, including fiber, magnesium, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are all essential for proper digestion.
- Headaches. Headaches can be a sign of a number of nutrient deficiencies, including magnesium, vitamin B2, and vitamin B6. These nutrients are all essential for proper brain function.
- Mood swings. Mood swings can be a sign of a number of nutrient deficiencies, including magnesium, vitamin B12, and zinc. These nutrients are all essential for healthy brain function.
- Anemia. Anemia is a condition in which the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body, so when you have anemia, you may feel tired, weak, and short of breath.
- Delayed wound healing. Nutrient deficiencies can slow down wound healing. This is because nutrients are needed for the body to repair damaged tissue.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. A doctor can order blood tests to check your levels of different nutrients. If you are found to be deficient in any nutrients, your doctor can recommend ways to increase your intake.
Here are some tips for getting the nutrients your body needs:
- Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Choose lean protein sources, such as fish, poultry, and beans.
- Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
- If you are vegan or vegetarian, make sure to get enough iron, vitamin B12, and other nutrients that are typically found in animal products.
- Talk to your doctor about taking a multivitamin or mineral supplement, if necessary.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your body gets the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.