The Most Common Nutritional Deficiencies

The Most Common Nutritional Deficiencies

A nutritional deficiency is an inadequate supply of essential and supporting nutrients. General health issues like fatigue or headaches can indicate a nutritional imbalance and other symptoms. 

Nutrient deficiency symptoms can occur depending on which vitamins, minerals, or trace elements are missing.

A nutrient imbalance can leave you feeling sleepy, confused, or moody. At Balance Hormone Center, our skilled team uses a holistic approach to identify symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan.

Symptoms of nutritional deficiency vary depending on what’s missing. Nonspecific signs include:

These symptoms may serve as early warning signs and may not be directly related to a nutritional deficiency or cause for concern. We evaluate and diagnose your symptoms to determine what you’re lacking.

Iron deficiency

Iron deficiency often affects young children and pregnant women. The World Health Organization estimates that 42% of children under 5 and 40% of pregnant women worldwide don’t get enough iron. 

Symptoms of iron deficiency include: 

You can correct an iron deficiency with dietary changes. Most meat products, plant foods, legumes, and dried fruits have high iron content. You can also ask us about iron supplements to avoid becoming anemic.

Magnesium deficiency

The human body doesn’t produce magnesium itself, which is why it’s one of the most common nutritional deficiencies. 

An unbalanced diet or incomplete absorption of magnesium in the intestine can lead to a magnesium deficiency. Pregnant women and athletes have a significant increase in the need for magnesium. 

Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include:

A healthy and varied diet is the best way to prevent magnesium deficiency. Foods such as bananas, avocados, chocolate, nuts, seeds, and spinach contain substantial amounts of magnesium. 

If there’s an increased need, we might recommend magnesium supplements to provide your body with sufficient magnesium. 

Iodine deficiency

Iodine deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies affecting thyroid function and thyroid hormone production. Thyroid hormones influence growth, brain development, and bone health, and they control your metabolism.

Symptoms of iodine deficiency include:

Add some cod or haddock to your diet, both of which have a high iodine content. Vegetarians and vegans can ensure adequate iodine intake by using iodized table salt and seaweed. You can also find small amounts of iodine in mushrooms, broccoli, spinach, and pumpkin seeds.

Vitamin B12 deficiency

Your DNA, blood cells, and neurons depend on vitamin B12. A deficiency in B12 has been linked to dementia and heart and blood vessel disease. On the positive side, B12 can boost your athletic performance.

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:

You can meet your vitamin B12 needs with animal foods such as meat, fish, eggs, milk, and dairy products. Vegans and some vegetarians may want to consider IV therapy or B12 supplements.

Many people can counteract a nutrient deficiency with a healthy and balanced diet, even without dietary supplements. In some instances, such as pregnancy or chronic illnesses, you may need some help. 

Contact our team at Balance Hormone Center in Norman, Oklahoma, to make an appointment today. A customized nutritional therapy plan can help you defeat hormone imbalance and relieve uncomfortable symptoms.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Menopause Treatments That Can Relieve Your Symptoms

Dealing with the challenges of menopause can be overwhelming. From sexual dysfunction to hot flashes and mood swings, it can affect your daily life. We provide effective menopause solutions to help you regain control.

Telltale Signs of Low Iron Levels

Are you feeling exhausted or weak lately? You could have low iron levels. Iron is vital for your well-being, and deficiency can lead to anemia. Discover how to tackle low iron levels and reclaim your energy today.

5 Smart Ways to Manage Your Menopause Symptoms

Women can experience hormonal imbalances with age. Read on for five tips to manage symptoms and feel comfortable in your own skin again during pre-menopause, perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause.

Understanding Your Pituitary Imbalance Diagnosis

You may have a lot of questions if you’ve been diagnosed with a pituitary imbalance. While this can be difficult and confusing, understanding your diagnosis can help alleviate some of the uncertainty.

How Fiber-Rich Foods Make Weight Control Easier

If you struggle to control your weight, consider adding fiber to your diet. It helps keep you full longer, and fiber-rich foods tend to be low in calories, so they can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Are you eating enough fiber?