Health

4 Nutrient Deficiencies People Often Ignore

Do you ever think about your health status? Are you satisfied with the daily things you eat or drink? According to the health experts, over 80 % of people, start to think about their health only when they are sick. But in fact, one day it may be too late to prevent your illness. Below […]

Do you ever think about your health status? Are you satisfied with the daily things you eat or drink?
According to the health experts, over 80 % of people, start to think about their health only when they are sick.
But in fact, one day it may be too late to prevent your illness.
Below you can find some nutrient deficiencies almost everyone has and doesn’t know about.

Which Are 4 Nutrient Deficiencies People Often Ignore?

1. IRON DEFICIENCY

Iron is the main component of red blood cells. It binds to the substance hemoglobin and transports oxygen throughout the body.

There are two dietary varieties of iron: heme and non-heme. Heme iron is easily absorbed and is mainly found in animal food. High concentrations of heme iron are found in red meat. Non-heme iron is more common, and is found in both animal and plant foods. It is not as easily absorbed as heme iron.

Iron deficiency estimates: 47% of preschool-aged children; 42% of pregnant women; 30% of menstruating women, and 25% of all people, worldwide.

Symptoms of iron deficiency include impaired cognitive function, impaired immune system function, fatigue, and a weakened immune system.

The best sources of heme iron include: red meat, seafood, organ meat, and canned sardines. The best sources of non-heme iron include: kidney beans, pumpkin, sesame or squash seeds; broccoli, kale, and spinach.

2. VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY

Vitamin D is critical for skin and bone health, and for nerve transmission throughout the body. Exposure to sunlight is paramount to natural Vitamin D acquisition, as the vitamin is created from cholesterol produced by the skin.

Vitamin D deficiency estimates: 82% of people with dark skin; 74% of elderly individuals, and 42% of U.S. adults.

Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency include: fatigue, muscle aches, and weakness. The symptoms of vitamin D deficiency can be vague, however.

The best sources of vitamin D include: sunshine (!), fortified milk or yogurt, fatty fish (mackerel, salmon, trout), cod liver oil, and egg yolks. It is tough to get enough vitamin D from diet alone, so exposure to a bit of sunshine every day is essential.

3. VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY

Vitamin B-12 is critical for proper brain and nerve function, and for the production of DNA. Per Harvard Health Publishing, vegetarians and vegans, in particular, may be at risk for developing B-12 deficiency as plants do not produce the nutrient.

Symptoms of B-12 deficiency may include: numbness in the feet, hands, or legs; dizziness, weakness, fatigue; a swollen, inflamed tongue; memory loss, paranoia, and hallucinations.

Vitamin B-12 estimates: 80 to 90% of vegetarians; 20% of older adults, and around 30% of U.S. adults.

The best sources of B12 include fish, chicken, milk, and yogurt. The best sources for vegans include Nutritional yeast, meat substitutes, and fortified soy or almond milk.

4. MAGNESIUM DEFICIENCY

Magnesium is a critical mineral that affects just about every bodily function. ‘Mg’ is crucial for brain function, nerve signaling, bone structure, and enzymatic reactions.

It is estimated that up to half of the U.S. population consumes the required amount of magnesium. Magnesium deficiency has been linked to several diseases, including heart disease, osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and muscle weakness.

Good sources of magnesium include nuts (almonds and cashews), whole grains, dark chocolate, and dark leafy green vegetables.

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