8 Warning Signs That Your Body Lacks Certain Vitamin or Mineral

Even when we eat a variety of healthy foods, our body may not get all the nutrients it needs. It might lack potassium for example, as the food you eat is rich in other minerals except for that particular one. Even if you’re leading a healthy lifestyle, you still need to educate yourself on the dangers of vitamin or mineral deficiencies, and recognize the signs on time.

Here are 8 early warning signs that you’re lacking a certain mineral or vitamin:

Changes on the nails

It is said that the nails are mirrors of our health. Any kind of change you notice on your nails is a sign for concern – ridges on the nails and curved nails indicate lack of iron, while white spots on the nails are a sign of vitamin deficiencies.

Nocturnal leg cramps

Nocturnal leg cramps are either a sign of potassium deficiency or dehydration. Potassium is very important for the health and contraction of our muscles, and its levels should always be kept steady. The cramps might also occur in cases of heavy workouts, when you lose too much electrolytes and don’t replace them. You can restore your electrolyte levels by drinking plenty of water and eating fruits such as banana and grapefruit as well. To boost your potassium levels, eat more spinach and broccoli.


Numbness in the limbs

If you’re often feeling numbness or even tingling in your hands and feet, you may be suffering from lack of folic acid or vitamin B6 and B12. To improve the levels of B vitamins, eat spinach, collard greens and other dark leafy vegetables.

Inflammation in the skin

Small and inflamed bumps on the skin are usually a result of lack of vitamin A. To regulate the levels of this vitamin, consume carrots, sweet potatoes and other colorful vegetables more often.

Depression and feeling blue

If you’re feeling blue out of a sudden, you may be suffering from a combination of nutrient deficiencies such as vitamins B12, C and D, or iron, selenium and calcium deficiencies. Lack of these nutrients has been related to depression and feelings of sadness.

Fatigue

If you’re lacking energy and feel tired all the time, it may be because of the lack of vitamin C or other vitamins from the B group. Magnesium and potassium deficiencies can also lead to low energy levels.

Weakened immune system

If you’re often suffering from infections and colds, you can be sure that your immune system is weakened. Vitamin A, D, E and chromium, zinc, magnesium and selenium deficiencies have also been associated with a weakened immune system.

Dry skin, oral problems, split hair ends

All three problems are usually caused by lack of vitamin C in the body. This nutrient is highly important for our wellbeing, so lack of it can lead to even more serious problems. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits as well as fermented foods, cabbage, kale, spinach and Brussels sprouts.