4 Signs That You Have Vitamin Deficiency

Vitamins and minerals are vital for good health. But even healthy eaters can sometimes fall short on vitamins. So how do you know if you are meeting your body’s requirements or not? Continue reading to find out if you are running low on vitamins.

1. Severe hair loss & brittle nails

All of us experience hair fall from time to time. But sometimes, it can be due to an underlying health condition, such as a vitamin deficiency. Brittle hair and nails are typical signs of vitamin deficiency. Vitamin B3 (Niacin) is required for healthy hair and when you are deficient in it, you could experience severe hair fall. Also, deficiency of Biotin (vitamin B7) can make your nails and hair brittle. Supplementing yourself with biotin can really help.

2. Ulcers or cracks in your mouth

Lesions in and around your mouth region are always a sign of insufficient vitamin intake, especially the B vitamins. Many doctors prescribe a vitamin B Complex supplement for people who report mouth ulcers. Studies have also reported that B vitamin deficiencies have been associated with mouth ulcers. Include whole grains, meat, fish, eggs, green vegetables, nuts and seeds in your diet to combat mouth ulcers.

3. Bleeding gums

This is a typical sign of vitamin C deficiency. This vitamin plays a vital role in wound healing and immunity. And its deficiency can cause bleeding in your gums and even lead to tooth loss. Consume adequate amount of vitamin-c rich foods like fresh fruits and vegetables or take supplements to alleviate the symptoms of vitamin C deficiency.

4. Night blindness

Vitamin A is required for the production of Rhodopsin (a retinal pigment that enables you to see at night) and when your body lacks it, you might find it hard to see at night or under low light conditions. If left untreated, night blindness can damage your cornea and can cause total blindness. This vitamin deficiency is rare in many countries. Although taking vitamin A supplements can help, one shouldn’t take it without really being diagnosed with vitamin A deficiency. This is because an excess of the vitamin can cause toxicity.