Nutrient Deficiency

Nutrient deficiency is an important contributing factor underlying many chronic symptoms and health challenges, yet it is not discussed enough.

Nutrient deficiency is an important contributing factor underlying many chronic symptoms and health challenges, yet it is not discussed enough. There is a clear difference between optimal levels of nutrients, which enables thriving health versus adequate where one might fall into a ‘normal range’ of values, but the level is nowhere near the optimal for health.

There’s never been a more important time to optimize our nutrition status - so that we have a robust immune system.

The best way to identify possible nutrient deficiency is by working with a doctor or a registered dietician who understands nutrition. Conventional serum lab testing may not indicate a true, cellular level of nutrient level, e.g. zinc and magnesium. A thorough nutritional assessment is ideally done by a doctor/dietician who is knowledgeable about nutrition and can take a comprehensive medical history on which to base the assessment.

Here are the top nutrient deficiencies I encounter. Some general tips on common symptoms and signs (the information does not replace the need for a medical assessment by a doctor).

Some common symptoms of nutrient deficiency:

• Fatigue/breathlessness/reduced exercise tolerance

• Muscle aches and pains

• Fragile hair, thinning hair, and brittle nails

• Acne/eczema

• Migraines

• Insomnia

• Brain fog & irritability

• Recurrent infections

• Cravings

These symptoms seem pretty standard in our fast-paced lifestyle, but they may be signs of something missing in your diet. If you find yourself experiencing these often, it might be time to look deeper into what is going on inside your body.

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Top 6 Nutrient Deficiencies:

1. Vitamin D

Especially with working from home in full swing, it can be very difficult to ensure we are getting enough Vitamin D. The best way to obtain this is via safe sun exposure; however, you can also get it from food & supplementation. My favorite vitamin D supplement is Vivolife, derived from algae. Use code: ‘Platefulhealth” at checkout for 10% off!

Signs may include:

• Getting sick often

• Hormone imbalance

• Fatigue

• Muscle weakness/joint soreness

I suggest you get your levels tested with your doctor before we head into the fall/winter and optimize this.

2. Vitamin B12

Similarly to Iodine, B12 is not made in our bodies. But it does contribute to many vital functions, such as brain health & making DNA. Contrary to popular belief, it is not just vegans who suffers from B12 deficiency. In fact, I used to give more B12 shots to non-vegans because so many people have impaired gut function and cannot absorb it even if they are eating enough. Low stomach acidity, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, and the MTHFR mutation, among a few others, contribute to a B12 deficiency.

Signs include:

• Pale Skin, tiredness, anemia

• Constipation or Diarrhea

• Numbness or Tingling

Supplement if you are vegan, and even if you eat animal products, if you have symptoms like anemia or fatigue, speak to your doctor about testing. My favorite B12 supplement is Vivolife.

Use code: “Platefulhealth” for 10% Off at checkout!