Vitamins are essential nutrients that help your body function properly. A balanced diet should provide all the vitamins you need, but this can be difficult in many cases. Many people don’t have the time, resources, or ability to maintain a balanced diet. Because of this, many people experience vitamin deficiencies that can be harmful to their short- and long-term health. These deficiencies can cause a range of health problems and even increase the risk of chronic diseases. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of common deficiencies so you can address the issue right away. Below you will find the most common vitamin deficiencies and their related symptoms.
Most Common Vitamin Deficiencies
Vitamin deficiencies can place you at a higher risk for serious health issues. Addressing the issue right away is important. Consider the following common vitamin deficiencies.
Vitamin D:
One of the most common vitamin deficiencies is vitamin D. Vitamin D is a vital nutrient that helps the body absorb calcium. This helps keep your teeth and bones strong, durable, and healthy. Vitamin D is low in those who don’t consume enough vitamin D-rich foods or who don’t get a lot of sun exposure. This is common in regions like the Pacific Northwest. Foods rich in vitamin D include fish, eggs, cheese, milk, and orange juice.
Common symptoms associated with a vitamin D deficiency include fatigue, muscle weakness, and pain in your bones. Prolonged deficiencies in Vitamin D are linked to serious health issues, including osteoporosis, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases. Consulting with a professional at the top pharmacy in Seattle near you is advisable, as they can provide you with the necessary supplements to ensure you stay healthy.
Folic Acid:
Folic acid is another common vitamin deficiency that can have serious consequences if not addressed. Additionally, folic acid is a B vitamin that is essential for proper cell growth and development. In fact, it plays a critical role in producing DNA and other genetic material. Those who don’t consume folate-rich foods or who have a medical condition that hinders absorption can be impacted. Foods that are high in folic acid include leafy greens, legumes, liver, and fruits like papaya.
Common symptoms associated with a folic acid deficiency include headaches, irritability, and fatigue. Prolonged deficiencies in folic acid are linked to anemia. Additionally, pregnant women should be highly cautious about their folic acid levels, as low levels can result in birth defects.
Vitamin B6:
One of the most common vitamin deficiencies is vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 is a critical nutrient as it serves a variety of purposes, including making red blood cells, supporting the immune system, and even creating neurotransmitters that carry signals between nerves. Foods that are rich in vitamin B6 include poultry, fish, and bananas.
Those who don’t consume foods rich in vitamin B6 can experience symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, fatigue, cracked lips, and skin inflammation. Serious health issues are also linked to low levels of vitamin B6, including anemia and depression.
Vitamin B12:
Vitamin B12 is another common vitamin deficiency that can have a serious impact on your health if not addressed right away. Additionally, Vitamin B12 is critical for the body’s production of red blood cells and DNA. Foods that are rich in vitamin B12 include meat and dairy products. This is why those who are vegan or vegetarian have a higher risk for the deficiency. Specialized dietary supplements may be necessary for those on certain diets.
Those who don’t consume foods containing vitamin B12 may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. Severe deficiencies can even lead to nerve damage. This can be irreversible, so it’s important to address the issue right away. Those who are older are at a higher risk as the body’s ability to effectively absorb vitamin B12 lowers as you age.