Nutritional Deficiencies Symptoms and Causes

Free Consultation

Treatments

Conditions

Give £50, Get £50

★★★★★
Over 59,645 patients agree
The Harley Street Skin Clinic

The symptoms

Dry, flaky, or inflamed skin

Brittle hair and nails

Fatigue and weakness

Slow wound healing

Increased vulnerability to illnesses

Unexplained bruising or bleeding

Brain fog or cognitive decline

When to see a doctor?

Consultation Is The Key

What happens to you if you do not take the essential nutrients you need?

See your doctor if you have any of the above symptoms for a long period. Nutritional and mineral deficiencies if ignored would result in serious complications over the years

Nutritional deficiencies are diagnosed by doctors thru:

Blood tests
Examinations for physical signs
Assessments of dietary and micronutrient intake

Nutritional deficiencies can also influence mental well-being, causing anxiety, depression or concentration problems

Advised treatments

Body Treatment

Body Treatment

Body Treatment

Body Treatment

The causes

What causes nutritional deficiency?

There are several reasons that can cause nutritional deficiencies, such as:

Poor diet: Regular consumption of processed or fast food can result in poor nutrient intake.
Malabsorption issues: Disorders such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease or IBS can interfere with proper nutrient absorption.
Increased nutrient demand: Pregnancy, illness or vigorous physical activity can increase your body’s nutrient needs.
Certain medications: Some medications, such as antacids and antibiotics, can hinder nutrient absorption.

The risk factors

Who is at risk of nutritional deficiency?

Poor lifestyle habits: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and stress can deplete vital nutrients.
Ageing: Nutrient absorption can be less efficient in older adults.
Dietary restrictions: Unbalanced gluten-free or vegan diets can result in deficiencies.

The complications

Hidden Dangers

How can it affect me?

Chronic fatigue syndrome
Ongoing tiredness and weakness.
Weakened immune system
More vulnerable to contracting infections.

Neurological conditions
Memory issues, behavioral changes, or cognitive decline.
Osteoporosis
Fragile, brittle bones from lack of calcium and vitamin D.

The prevention

What is a balanced diet and why is it important?

Eating different foods provides your body with the vitamins and minerals it requires for maintaining health. By eating the right mix of foods that are calcium rich foods and iron rich foods from dark green vegetables, you can reduce the risk of not getting enough nutrients.

Foods you can eat everyday in your diet

Your meals should include lean proteins like chicken or fish, fiber-rich green leafy vegetables, whole grains, dairy or plant-based alternatives and healthy fats from nuts and seeds. Consuming a combination of these foods daily is what helps keep your body strong and nourished.

When to supplement?

Dietary supplements can fill the gaps if your diet is lacking in nutrients. Certain medical issues, pregnancy, or restrictive diets may require individuals to take more vitamin supplements like vitamin C, D, B12 and folic acid to ensure health.

Is it possible to harm himself by taking too many supplements?

Yes! Excessive amounts of some kind of vitamins or minerals can even result in health issues. For instance, excess vitamin A can damage your liver, excess iron can make your stomach sick. Over nutrition can lead to metabolic disorders and this metabolic syndrome can lead to insulin resistance and high blood pressure.. As always, consult with a doctor before starting vitamin and mineral supplements.

How does drinking water help with nutrition?

Water aids in the absorption and transportation of nutrients in your body. If you’re not getting enough fluids, your body might not be able to fully utilise the vitamins and minerals from your food, which can lead to deficiencies over time.

Some good ways to stay hydrated

Beside water, you can drink herbal teas, and fresh fruit juices, or eat high-water-content foods, including watermelon, oranges, and cucumbers. Avoid excessive sugary drinks and caffeine, which can lead to dehydration.

Why are check-ups essential?

Regular visits to a doctor can help detect any nutritional deficiencies in their early stages. Blood tests can reveal if you’re low on key nutrients such as iron, vitamin D or B12, so you can correct the macro- and micronutrient deficiency before it compromises your health.

When to see a doctor

It varies with your dietary and health status. An annual check-up is usually a good idea but if you have a medical condition or dietary restrictions, you may require testing more frequently.

Can cooking affect nutrient levels in food?

Yes! How you cook the food can make a difference in how many nutrients end up in your meal. While overcooking or deep-frying can reduce vitamins, gentler methods help retain the vitamins.

Best way to cook your food

Veggies also retain their nutrients when steamed or lightly sautéed. If you boil them, try to use the cooking water in soups or sauces to retain any of the vitamins that may have leached out.