By The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Team
•
July 16, 2025
Let's take a deep dive into signs of nutrient deficiency you should never ignore. Cracked Lips - > B2 Deficiency Riboflavin (vitamin B2) deficiency, also known as a riboflavinosis, can cause a variety of symptoms, including skin disorders, mouth sores, and vision problems. It's often associated with other nutritional deficiencies and can be particularly risky during pregnancy. Treatment typically involves riboflavin supplementation and addressing any underlying conditions contributing to the deficiency. Signs and Symptoms Skin: Dermatitis, including red, scaly patches, especially around the mouth, nose, ears, and genitals. Cracks and fissures at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis) and on the lips (cheilosis). Mouth: Soreness, inflammation, and a magenta-colored tongue. Eyes: Itchy, red, and watery eyes, light sensitivity (photophobia), and blurred vision. In severe cases, it can contribute to cataracts. General Fatigue, anemia (especially in severe cases), and possibly depression. Some studies also suggest a link to migraines and peripheral neuropathy. Reproductive: Riboflavin deficiency during pregnancy can potentially lead to fetal birth defects and increase the risk of preeclampsia. Causes Inadequate dietary intake: Especially in populations with limited access to riboflavin-rich foods like dairy, meat, and eggs. Malabsorption: Conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease can impair riboflavin absorption. Increased needs: Pregnancy, lactation, and intense exercise can increase riboflavin requirements. Bleeding Gums - > Vitamin C Deficiency Vitamin C deficiency, if severe and prolonged, can lead to a disease called scurvy. Scurvy is characterized by symptoms like fatigue, anemia, bleeding gums, poor wound healing, and skin problems. While scurvy is rare in the United States, it can affect older adults with poor nutrition. Symptoms Early symptoms: Fatigue, weakness, irritability, weight loss, and vague muscle and joint aches. Scurvy symptoms (develop after months of deficiency): Bleeding under the skin (especially around hair follicles and as bruises), swollen and bleeding gums, loose teeth, dry and brittle hair, dry and rough skin, fluid accumulation in the legs, and anemia. Infants: May exhibit irritability, pain upon movement, loss of appetite, impaired bone growth, and bleeding or anemia. Causes Insufficient dietary intake: Not eating enough fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamin C. Increased need: Certain conditions like smoking, drug or alcohol abuse, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can increase the body's need for vitamin C. Absorption issues: Problems with the gastrointestinal tract can hinder vitamin C absorption. Hair Loss - > Zinc Deficiency Zinc deficiency occurs when the body doesn't get enough zinc, a vital mineral. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including impaired immune function, slow wound healing, hair loss, and skin problems. In severe cases, it can also affect growth, sexual development, and cognitive function. Symptoms Impaired Immune Function: Zinc is crucial for a healthy immune system, and deficiency can increase susceptibility to infections. Delayed Wound Healing: Zinc plays a role in cell growth and repair, so a deficiency can slow down the healing of wounds. Skin Problems: Skin rashes, eczema-like lesions, and dry, flaky skin can be signs of zinc deficiency. Hair Loss: Zinc deficiency can contribute to hair loss or thinning. Digestive Issues: Diarrhea, especially in infants, is a common symptom. Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss: Zinc deficiency can reduce appetite and contribute to weight loss. Changes in Taste and Smell: A reduced ability to taste and smell can be a sign of zinc deficiency. Growth Retardation: In children, zinc deficiency can hinder growth and development. Cognitive Impairment: Zinc is important for brain function, and deficiency can affect alertness, memory, and learning. Eye Problems: In severe cases, zinc deficiency can affect vision, including night blindness. Causes Inadequate Dietary Intake: Not eating enough zinc-rich foods can lead to deficiency, particularly in people with restrictive diets or limited access to nutritious food. Malabsorption Issues: Certain medical conditions, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease, can interfere with zinc absorption. Increased Excretion: Conditions like diarrhea or kidney disease can increase zinc excretion, leading to deficiency. Increased Needs: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and periods of rapid growth can increase the body's zinc requirements. Alcohol Abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption can impair zinc absorption and increase excretion. Night Blindness - > Vitamin A Deficiency Vitamin A deficiency occurs when the body doesn't get enough vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, immune function, and cell growth. It's a global health concern, particularly in developing countries, and can lead to vision problems, including night blindness and, in severe cases, blindness. Causes Dietary deficiency: Inadequate intake of vitamin A-rich foods is the primary cause, especially in regions where rice, which lacks vitamin A, is a staple food. Malabsorption: Conditions like cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, or certain pancreatic disorders can hinder the body's ability to absorb vitamin A. Liver disorders: The liver stores vitamin A, so liver issues can impair the body's ability to utilize it. Other conditions: Iron or zinc deficiency can also impact vitamin A uptake. Symptoms Night blindness: Difficulty seeing in low light is often the first noticeable symptom. Xerophthalmia: Dryness of the conjunctiva (white part of the eye) and cornea, potentially leading to corneal ulcers and blindness. Impaired immune function: Vitamin A is crucial for a healthy immune system, and deficiency can increase susceptibility to infections. Growth problems: Vitamin A deficiency can hinder growth and development, especially in children. Muscle Cramps - > Magnesium Deficiency Magnesium deficiency, also known as hypomagnesemia, occurs when the body has low levels of magnesium. Symptoms can range from mild, like fatigue and muscle cramps, to severe, such as seizures or abnormal heart rhythms. It's important to address magnesium deficiency promptly as it can lead to various health complications. Common Symptoms Fatigue and Weakness: Feeling unusually tired or weak. Muscle Problems: Muscle cramps, spasms, and twitching. Loss of Appetite: Reduced desire to eat. Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to the stomach and throwing up. Numbness and Tingling: Pins and needles sensations, particularly in the limbs. Abnormal Heart Rhythms: Irregular heartbeat. Headaches: Including migraines. Personality Changes: Irritability, anxiety, or confusion. Causes Poor Dietary Intake: Not consuming enough magnesium-rich foods. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions like Crohn's disease or celiac disease can impair magnesium absorption. Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can interfere with magnesium absorption and increase excretion. Certain Medications: Some medications can deplete magnesium levels. Kidney Problems: Impaired kidney function can affect magnesium levels. Ice Cravings - > Iron Deficiency Iron deficiency, particularly in the form of iron deficiency anemia (IDA), is associated with sleep disturbances like insomnia, shorter sleep duration, and restless sleep. Symptoms Being pale or having yellow "sallow" skin. Unexplained fatigue or lack of energy. Shortness of breath or chest pain, especially with activity. Insomnia and sleep disturbances: Research indicates a link between anemia and insomnia, with some studies showing a higher risk of insomnia in individuals with IDA. Anemia can also lead to other sleep problems, such as restless legs syndrome (RLS). Reduced oxygen flow: Iron deficiency can affect oxygen delivery to the brain, potentially leading to sleep disturbances. Increased heart rate: The body may compensate for reduced oxygen by increasing heart rate, which can make it harder to fall asleep. Anxiety and neurotransmitter imbalances: Low iron levels can contribute to anxiety, which can disrupt sleep. Additionally, iron is involved in the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and melatonin, which play crucial roles in sleep regulation. Restless legs syndrome: Iron deficiency is a known risk factor for RLS, a condition characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. Sleep alterations in infants: Studies have also found that early IDA in infancy is associated with long-lasting alterations in sleep patterns, such as changes in REM sleep duration and timing, even after iron treatment. Fatigue - > B12 Deficiency Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a range of health problems, including anemia, fatigue, nerve damage, and neurological issues. It's crucial to recognize the symptoms and seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms General: Fatigue, weakness, pale or yellow skin, headaches. Neurological: Numbness or tingling in hands and feet, muscle weakness, problems with balance and coordination, vision problems, memory problems, confusion, depression, and irritability. Gastrointestinal: Digestive issues, loss of appetite, a smooth, sore, and inflamed tongue (glossitis). Causes Dietary: Insufficient intake of B12-rich foods (primarily found in animal products). This is especially relevant for vegetarians and vegans. Absorption Issues: Conditions like pernicious anemia (where the body can't absorb B12), celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or after weight loss surgery can hinder B12 absorption. Dry Skin - > Omega-3 Deficiency Omega-3 deficiency can lead to various health issues, including dry skin, joint pain, mood swings, and fatigue. Insufficient intake of these essential fatty acids, found in foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, can be a contributing factor. Addressing this deficiency can involve dietary changes and, in some cases, supplementation. Signs and Symptoms Skin Issues: Dry, rough skin, eczema, and increased sensitivity. Joint Pain: Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties, and deficiency can exacerbate joint pain and stiffness, according to NativePath. Mood Changes: Deficiency can impact mood, potentially leading to depression, anxiety, and irritability, according to Progressive Medical Center. Cognitive Function: Omega-3s are important for brain health. Deficiency can lead to brain fog, poor memory, and difficulty concentrating, says Zooki. Other Symptoms: Dry eyes, fatigue, increased thirst, and potential cardiovascular issues can also be linked to omega-3 deficiency. Hair and Nails: Brittle hair and nails can be a sign of omega-3 deficiency, as these fatty acids contribute to hair and nail health. Depression - > Vitamin D Deficiency Vitamin D deficiency occurs when the body doesn't have enough vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health, calcium absorption, and various other bodily functions. It can lead to a range of health problems, including bone pain, muscle weakness, and increased risk of fractures, especially in children and older adults. Several factors can contribute to deficiency, such as limited sun exposure, dietary inadequacies, and certain health conditions. Causes Insufficient Sun Exposure: Sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D for most people, as the skin produces it when exposed to UVB radiation. Factors like geographic location (especially during winter months), limited time outdoors, and using sunscreen can reduce vitamin D synthesis. Dietary Deficiency: Very few foods naturally contain vitamin D. While some foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified products (like milk and cereal) can help, they may not provide sufficient amounts for everyone. Malabsorption Issues: Certain conditions like Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and cystic fibrosis can hinder the body's ability to absorb vitamin D from food. Certain Medications: Some medications, including certain anticonvulsants and those used to treat HIV/AIDS, can interfere with vitamin D metabolism and absorption. Obesity: Individuals with a BMI over 30 may have lower vitamin D levels due to the vitamin being sequestered in body fat, making it less available for use. Darker Skin Tone: People with darker skin pigmentation produce less vitamin D in response to sunlight than those with lighter skin. Symptoms Bone Pain and Weakness: Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, which is needed for strong bones. Deficiency can lead to bone pain, especially in the back and hips, and can increase the risk of fractures. Muscle Weakness and Pain: Vitamin D receptors are present in muscles, and deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, fatigue, and increased risk of falls. Rickets (in children): In children, vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets, a condition where bones become soft and weak, leading to skeletal deformities, particularly bowed legs. Osteomalacia (in adults): In adults, deficiency can cause osteomalacia, which is a softening of the bones, leading to bone pain, muscle weakness, and increased risk of fractures. Fatigue and Mood Changes: Some individuals with vitamin D deficiency may experience fatigue, depression, and other mood changes. Pale Skin - > Iron or B12 Deficiency Frequent Infections - > Zinc or Vitamin C Deficiency Tingling/Numbness - > B12 Deficiency Bloating after meals - > Low Stomach Acid Brain Fog - > Choline Deficiency Restless Legs - > Iron or Magnesium Deficiency Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana to address your symptoms and get to the root cause of your health issues. Call or Text 1 (602) 524-0222.
