Vitamin deficiency is a condition that occurs when the body does not receive enough vitamins to function properly. Natural sources of Vitamin A are eggs, milk, carrots, sweet potatoes and spinach are good sources of Vitamin A. Natural sources of Vitamin B are poultry (chicken), fish, eggs, whole grains, dairy products and nuts. Natural sources of Vitamin C are oranges, tomatoes, strawberries and bell peppers.
The Common Vitamin Deficiencies are Vitamin A deficiency, Vitamin B deficiency, Vitamin C deficiency, and Vitamin D deficiency. There are several common causes of vitamin deficiency. They include Poor diet and malnutrition, Lack of sunlight exposure (vitamin D), and Certain medications (e.g., antacids), intestinal problems, surgeries, excessive alcohol consumption, certain prescription drugs.
The Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin Deficiency include weakness, weight loss, poor appetite, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, digestion problems (including constipation and diarrhoea), Skin problems, Hair loss, Mood changes, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, personality changes, unsteady movements, mental confusion or forgetfulness.
Vitamin deficiencies can have serious consequences. Some of the most common ones are osteoporosis, cancer, infection, poor bone health, pregnancy complications and birth defects.
To diagnose vitamin deficiency, blood tests are carried out. They include complete blood count, 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D test and blood retinol test.
Treating vitamin deficiency is by dietary changes, vitamin supplements, vitamin injections and sun exposure.
To prevent vitamin deficiency it is important to eat a balanced diet, eat enough fruits and vegetables, take multivitamins and limit processed foods, alcohol and smoking.
Visit MedBioTech for your vitamin level tests and detect vitamin deficiencies.
References:
www.mayoclinic.org
www.testing.com
