Deficiency In Vitamins & Minerals

Everyone needs a number of key nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, to stay in optimum health. When you don't get enough of a particular vitamin or mineral, you can develop a deficiency, and this can lead to health problems. If, for one reason or another, you think you're getting an insufficient amount of vitamins and minerals, talk with your physician, who may recommend a supplement.

Vitamins and Minerals

You need both minerals, which are inorganic elements found in nature, and vitamins, which are organic compounds found in various plants and animals. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that you get 21 key nutrients on a daily basis to maintain optimal health. Among those nutrients are vitamins and minerals. The amounts differ, depending on your sex, age and whether you're a pregnant or lactating woman.

Nutrient Deficiency Effects

You can have a deficiency whenever you do not get enough of one or more essential nutrients. For example, people who do not get enough vitamin B6 have symptoms such as skin inflammation, sore tongue, depression, confusion and even convulsions, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Other mineral and vitamin deficiencies can lead to bone loss and a decreased ability to prevent or fight off illness.

Causes

Some deficiencies have dietary causes. If, for example, your deficiency stems from failing to eat a balanced diet, a change in eating habits may be enough to solve the deficiency. A deficiency can also be caused by a disease or health condition, age or environmental issues. Regardless of the cause, it's important to address a vitamin deficiency as soon as you learn about it to prevent health problems.

Prevention and Solutions

For most people, eating a balanced diet is the simplest way to prevent a vitamin or mineral deficiency. Some people can also benefit from taking a dietary supplement, such as a multivitamin or similar product. Talk with your physician first, though. Over-the-counter dietary supplements do not require Food and Drug Administration approval, so your physician may have specific recommendations regarding the type of supplement and amount you should be taking.