All vitamins are essential for the body. Sometimes, vitamin deficiencies manifest through mild or severe symptoms, which you should be aware of.
According to the family magazine service of Saed News, vitamins are micronutrients that play vital roles in the body and are necessary for its functions. Since vitamins are not produced by the body, they need to be obtained through diet. Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining health. Vitamin deficiencies can cause various mild and sometimes severe symptoms, which we will discuss here.
Diseases Related to Vitamin Deficiencies
Hair Loss: Studies show that a deficiency in vitamin B (biotin) can lead to hair loss. Other B vitamins help produce red blood cells, which deliver oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles and the scalp, promoting hair growth. Deficiencies in vitamin A, vitamin B7, and iron can cause physical and mental issues like hair loss, acne, and depression.
Headaches and Dizziness: B vitamins protect the nervous system and play a crucial role in preventing headaches. Both primary and secondary headaches can be linked to vitamin deficiencies. Deficiencies in vitamin B2, vitamin B6, calcium, and magnesium are particularly associated with headaches.
Depression: Depression is one of the most common mental health problems. Nutritional factors and deficiencies in certain nutrients and vitamins significantly contribute to depression. Vitamin D deficiency, for example, is strongly linked to depression, dementia, and autism.
Insomnia: Certain vitamins and nutrients can help regulate the body's biological clock and improve sleep. A deficiency in vitamin B6 can lead to insomnia because the body cannot produce sleep hormones properly.
Night Vision Problems: A deficiency in vitamin A can cause night vision problems. To boost vitamin A and enhance vision, consuming carrots—which are rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A—is beneficial.
Cracks at the Corners of the Mouth: Cracks and splits at the corners of the mouth can result from deficiencies in vitamins B2, B3, and B12, or from iron and zinc deficiencies. This issue is more common among vegetarians and those with inadequate diets.
Bleeding Gums and Slow-Healing Wounds: Bleeding gums and wounds that take a long time to heal are often due to vitamin C deficiency. To prevent this deficiency and scurvy, a daily intake of 10 milligrams of vitamin C is recommended. Main sources include tangerines, oranges, red bell peppers, papayas, and kiwis.
Red Pimples on the Face and Body: Deficiencies in vitamins A, D, and fatty acids can cause red pimples on areas like the thighs, arms, and cheeks. Eating leafy greens, orange and yellow vegetables, salmon, and getting sunlight can help combat these pimples.
Fatigue: Persistent fatigue can indicate various illnesses or a deficiency in one or more vitamins. Deficiencies in riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin D, and vitamin B12 can cause fatigue. Eating fish, meat, eggs, and mushrooms can help alleviate this symptom.
Loss of Appetite: A range of issues can lead to reduced appetite and the lack of hunger, one being a biotin deficiency. Consuming almonds, eggs, legumes, and other biotin-rich foods can help resolve this issue.
Dry Skin: Dry skin can be caused by various factors, including deficiencies in vitamins A and B. Vitamin B3 (niacin) is crucial for healthy skin, and its deficiency can cause pellagra. A lack of biotin can also lead to flaky, dry skin. To prevent dry skin, include leafy greens, nuts, grains, and fatty fish in your diet.
Nausea, Constipation, and Bloating: These common symptoms can stem from various causes, including a deficiency in vitamin B12. Foods rich in vitamin B12 include liver, kidneys, turkey, and tuna. This deficiency can be hard to detect as the body stores large amounts of this vitamin.
Numbness in Hands and Feet: Deficiencies in folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12 can cause numbness and tingling in the extremities (fingers and toes). To increase these vitamins, consume vegetables like beets, asparagus, spinach, and eggs.
Diarrhea: Numerous factors can cause diarrhea, one being a deficiency in vitamin B9. If you experience persistent diarrhea without an apparent cause, consume foods rich in vitamin B9, such as liver, legumes, and cooked beans.
Pain in Fingers, Calves, and Soles: Deficiencies in calcium, potassium, or magnesium can cause cramps and pain in the calves, fingers, or soles without an apparent reason. To alleviate this pain, consume fruits like cherries, apples, grapes, bananas, and leafy green vegetables.
