Eating a balanced diet is a great way to ensure you’re obtaining the right amount of nutrients and vitamins to have a healthy lifestyle. However, sometimes diet alone isn’t enough. Many people experience vitamin deficiencies because of age, race, or gender. For those that have vitamin deficiencies, it can affect their daily life. The most common symptoms are extreme fatigue, irritability, and weakened muscles. Here’s all you need to know about vitamins D, B6, B12, and folic acid deficiencies.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D is essential for strengthening bones and muscles, improving mood, and increasing sex hormones…and a deficiency of it can increase the risk of osteoporosis, bone fractures, and certain types of cancer. This vitamin also plays a role in keeping your immune system strong.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Depression
- Muscles weakness
- Fatigue
- Bone pain
Causes and Risk Factors:
- Celiac disease
- Obesity
- Liver disease
- Older age
- Little exposure to sunlight
Vitamin B6 Deficiency
This vitamin is a significant part of brain development for children and keeps the immune and nervous system healthy for children and adults. Vitamin B6 is also known for its disease prevention like heart and kidney disease.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Skin conditions (rashes)
- Confusion
- Weakened immune system
- Anemia
- Seizures
Causes and Risk Factors:
- Kidney conditions
- Alcohol dependence
- Autoimmune intestinal disorders
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 is crucial for its red blood cell production, preventing anemia, and nerve function. The body cannot produce it naturally, but it can be found in animal-based foods. Vegans are at a higher risk for B12 deficiency, and if left untreated, it can cause nerve and brain damage.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Dizziness and imbalance
- Anemia
- Shortness of breath
- Tingling in hands and feet
- Sore tongue
Causes and Risk Factors:
- Intestinal issues
- Vegan and vegetarian diets
- Older age
- Gastrectomies
Folic Deficiency
Folic acid (folate) is also crucial for red blood cell production. Folate is one of the most critical nutrients women need during pregnancy, and a deficiency can lead to birth defects. A folic deficiency can also lead to decreased cognitive function.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Irritability
- Memory loss
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Tongue swelling and mouth sores
Causes and Risk Factors:
- Alcohol dependence
- Medication side effect
- Pregnancy
- Crohn’s disease
- Kidney conditions
Deficiency Treatments and Solutions With Biocure
The best way to prevent a vitamin deficiency is to eat a balanced and vitamin-rich diet, but supplements might be required for those with a higher risk factor. If a vitamin deficiency goes untreated, it can lead to significant health complications such as neurological problems, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer’s, and mental health issues. As we get older, our body is less likely to absorb specific vitamins, which leads to a deficiency. Women also tend to have a higher risk of developing vitamin deficiencies.
Diagnosing a vitamin deficiency is the first step of treatment. At Biocure, we have a top-rated micronutrient and vitamin test that can help us assess your blood panel. Our team of health professionals can create a tailored treatment plan to help you manage all of your health concerns. Our new program also includes a Doctor-Owned and Curated supplement program by StrategIQ Health, which we utilize to customize a supplement kit to fix any wellness issues or deficiencies. Contact Biocure today to get a personalized health assessment to reach your goals.
