Common Signs You Are Nutrient Deficient

By Anand Kumar

It is a well-known fact that a healthy diet supplies energy to the body and provides the necessary ingredients for cells to develop. Nutrient deficiencies can have an adverse effect on your day-to-day activities but if you are very watchful enough, you will see some signs that will clearly tell you that you are running low on nutrients. Here are some of them.

Pale Complexion

If your skin is unusually pale, it means that there is an iron deficiency in your body. Iron deficiency makes your red blood cells to be fewer, tinier and with diminished haemoglobin and this makes them to lose their red colour. The anaemic skin is apparent on the inner layer of your eyelids as well as mucus membrane, e.g. the tissues in your mouth. You can boost your iron level by taking foods rich in iron like spinach, beef, lentils and iron-fortified cereals.

Dry, Dehydrated Skin

Dry skin is very common in winter, but if your skin is drier than usual, it may be due to lack of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. Omega-3s aid in nourishing the lipid barrier of your skin, which is responsible for keeping harmful germs as well as toxins out and vital moisture in. When there is an insufficient omega-3 fatty acid in your diet, your skin will lose moisture and this can lead to unpalatable scaly texture. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acid include sardines, salmon, flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts and so on.

Cracked and Sore Lips

When your lips are cracked beyond normal, it may be the sign of lack of riboflavin in your diet. If your diet lacks riboflavin, it can lead to cracking of the corners of your mouth and dryness of your lips. You may also notice a puffed, dark red tongue and an inflamed mouth. If it is not treated in time, it can lead to nerve damage which will eventually cause the tingling of your toes and fingers. Foods rich in riboflavin are broccoli, salmon, almond, eggs, etc.

Bleeding Gums

Frequent and excessive bleeding of the gums is an indication that there is a vitamin K deficiency in your diet. Vitamin K helps in blood clotting and this aids in stopping bleeding after a cut as well as forestalling uncontrolled bleeding from delicate tissues such as your gums. You can get a lot of vitamin K into your diet by taking plenty of dark, leafy and green vegetables.

Article Source:  Common Signs You Are Nutrient Deficient