Vitamin Deficiency? What to Look Out For!

A wise quote by Hippocrates says, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” As fantastic as that sounds, our reality is a bit different. The food we get from most big companies these days is often sprayed with pesticides or processed in ways that reduce its nutritional value. Many essential vitamins and minerals are depleted, so whenever possible, it’s best to go for organic options from trusted sources.

If your body isn’t getting the vitamins and minerals it needs, you might find yourself feeling run-down or experiencing certain health issues. Identifying any potential deficiencies can help you make changes to support your health naturally. Here’s what to watch out for with some common vitamin deficiencies – but always consult a health professional if you’re unsure.

Common Vitamin Deficiencies and How to Boost Your Intake

Here are some signs of common deficiencies and tips to increase your intake with whole foods and supplements.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Known as the "sunshine vitamin," Vitamin D is essential for strong bones and immune health.

• Signs: Depression, muscle weakness, bone pain, and osteoporosis.
• Solution: Try for 10 minutes of sun daily, or consider a supplement like Vitamin D3. Foods such as fatty fish, mushrooms, and egg yolks are also good sources.

Vitamin E Deficiency

Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant to protect your cells.

• Signs: Skin problems, eye issues, fertility concerns, and cognitive changes.
• Solution: Add Almond Oil for skin health and try including avos, almonds, nuts, and seeds in your diet.

Vitamin K Deficiency

Vitamin K is vital for blood clotting and bone health.

• Signs: Easy bruising, heavy periods, and osteoporosis.
• Solution: Go for foods like asparagus, leafy greens, and herbs such as parsley.

Vitamin A Deficiency

Vitamin A is important for immune health and glowing skin.

• Signs: Dry skin, brittle nails, night blindness, and conjunctivitis.
• Solution: Eat foods rich in beta-carotene, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach.

Vitamin C Deficiency

Humans can’t produce Vitamin C, so it’s essential to get it from food.

• Signs: Poor immunity, splitting hair, bleeding gums, and fatigue.
• Solution: Boost your intake with tomatoes, citrus fruits, and berries. Try Lucuma Powder, a superfood rich in Vitamin C, in smoothies.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

B12 is crucial for brain health and the nervous system.

• Signs: Memory loss, anaemia, tingling in extremities, and fatigue.
• Solution: Add meats, tofu, and dairy products to your meals, and supplement with Vitamin B12 if needed, especially for vegans and vegetarians.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Deficiency

Omega-3s are essential for brain and heart health.

• Signs: Dry skin, eczema, small red bumps, and joint pain.
• Solution: Add chia seeds, flaxseed oil, and oily fish to your diet or try Omega 3-6-9.

Calcium Deficiency

Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth.

• Signs: Psoriasis, muscle cramps, nail ridges, and fatigue.
• Solution: Include almonds, dairy, and broccoli, or consider Calcium, Magnesium plus Boron.

Iron Deficiency

Iron is necessary for healthy red blood cells and oxygen transport.

• Signs: Dizziness, pale skin, headaches, and breathlessness.
• Solution: Add red meat, tofu, seafood, and nuts to your meals or try Gentle Iron if needed.

Magnesium Deficiency

Magnesium is involved in almost every bodily function.

• Signs: Restless leg syndrome, high blood pressure, cramps, and fatigue.
• Solution: Foods like bananas, lentils, and avos can help. Magnesium Oil spray is also great for transdermal absorption.

Zinc Deficiency

Zinc supports immune health and skin repair.

• Signs: White spots on nails, dandruff, low immunity, and mouth ulcers.
• Solution: Include meat, legumes, mushrooms, and spinach in your diet or try Solgar Chelated Zinc.

Superfoods and Quality Supplements for a Nutritional Boost

Adding a good daily multivitamin like V-2000 for adults or Solgar Kangavites for kids can ensure you’re meeting your nutrient needs. Superfoods, such as Lucuma Powder or raw cacao, offer a boost of vitamins and minerals that can help you reduce cravings for sugar and support a balanced diet.

When choosing supplements, look for ones free from artificial fillers, colorants, and flavours. The Feelgood Health range offers carefully selected products that prioritise your health without unnecessary additives, helping you feel confident in your journey to a healthier lifestyle.