We all know how important it is for our bodies to get vitamins and minerals for staying healthy. However, many of us are unsure on whether we’re meeting our body’s needs. Whether you’re feeling more tired than usual, or you have an irregular heartbeat, there are lots of red flags that may indicate you aren’t getting the essential nutrients your body needs. Here are five telltale signs that you should be on the lookout for.
Hair Loss
Although it is normal to lose roughly 100 strands of hair each day, if you’re noticing large clumps of hair on your pillow when you wake up in the morning, or while you’re in the shower, this could indicate that you’re low in iron. While it may be distressing to see, you aren’t the only one, as it’s regarded as the most common nutrient deficiency. To check whether your levels are off, you can make an appointment with your doctor who will perform a quick blood test. There are lots of iron-rich foods that you can incorporate into your diet, such as beans, poultry, and lean beef.
Unexplained Fatigue
If you’re constantly feeling fatigued and run down and aren’t sure what is causing it, it may be time to check your vitamin D levels. Your body makes vitamin D when your skin is exposed to sunlight. However, it does not show up naturally in lots of foods. If you don’t get out much and aren’t exposing your skin to the rays, some foods can boost your vitamin D, including salmon and tuna. To boost your energy levels and fight off fatigue, there are performance-enhancing supplements you can try out.
Burning Mouth
Burning mouth syndrome causes your lips, gums, and the inside of your cheek and mouth to feel as though they are burning. You may also experience a numb or dry mouth. One of the most common reasons for this is a lack of B vitamins, such as B6 and folate. To raise the B6 in your diet, foods like beans, spinach, and bananas can help.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Keeping control of your weight is key to good health. However, if you’ve noticed persistent weight-loss that happens when you are not actively pursuing it, this is one of the major red flags that you’re not getting enough nutrients. Your body depends on micronutrients and macronutrients for repair and restoration. Only you will know your body inside and out, so don’t hesitate to speak to your doctor if you have any concerns about your weight.
Soft and Weak Bones
If you have fragile bones, this may be a sign of deficiency in calcium or vitamin D. Both of these are key nutrients needed for promoting bone density. Maintaining your vitamin D levels is crucial for good bone health. There are things you can do to strengthen soft and weak bones, including regular exercise, following a balanced diet, and taking supplements.
If you are experiencing any of the above, this could be a sign that you aren’t getting the essential nutrients your body needs. Make sure to book an appointment with your doctor, who can advise you further on what steps to take to reverse any deficiencies.
