Signs & Symptoms Of Poor Nutrition

Good nutrition is important for staying healthy and preventing illness. Eating a diet that lacks essential nutrients can have the opposite effect -- it can cause a decline in health and may even contribute to disease. The American Dietetic Association reports that knowing the most common signs and symptoms of poor nutrition is an important way to make changes. If you have any of these health problems, make an appointment with your doctor or a dietitian to learn how to improve your nutrition and your health.

Mental Deficiencies

Your brain cells rely on adequate nutrition in order to send messages to your body and receive messages from your body. Poor nutrition can cause your brain cells to decline in health and function, which can negatively impact your mental health. A diet that does not include enough B-vitamins from grains, fruits and vegetables can cause loss of memory, confusion, irritability, nervousness and an inability to concentrate, John D. Kirschmann reports in his book, "Nutrition Almanac." One B-vitamin -- thiamine -- is particularly important, and a deficiency can lead to permanent brain damage. Vitamins C, D and E are also important for brain health, and deficiencies can cause listlessness and mood changes.

Weight Changes

American Dietetic Association notes that weight changes associated with poor nutrition are often unintentional. If your diet does not consist of enough healthy foods, you can lose an unhealthy amount of weight and key nutrients. If your diet consists of too much nutritionally lacking food, you can gain too much weight or even become obese. Being underweight and being overweight are both symptoms of poor nutrition.

Tooth, Gum and Mouth Problems

You can help keep your teeth and gums healthy by brushing, flossing and seeing your dentist regularly. Eating a nutritious diet also plays a role in your oral health. Vitamin C is one essential nutrient you need to keep your teeth and gums healthy, and a deficiency can lead to several different problems. One example is periodontal disease, which can lead to swollen and infected gums, loose teeth or missing teeth. You may also experience mouth pain or develop canker sores. Other nutrients you need in your diet for a healthy mouth include calcium, folic acid and niacin, Kirschmann adds.

Disease

There are a multitude of diseases that may be caused by poor nutrition. One of the most well-known is scurvy, which occurs when you lack vitamin C, and causes bleeding gums, sore joints, rough skin and an increased susceptibility for bruising. Anemia is marked by low iron levels, and a vitamin C deficiency can also contribute to this disease. Poor nutrition can also lead to low blood sugar levels, hypertension, acne, skin conditions like boils and dry patches, osteoporosis and thyroid problems. Diet also plays a role in your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer.