Nutritional deficiencies

A balanced diet consists of various macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Vitamins and minerals comprise the micronutrient portion of the meal. Nutritional deficiency is a broad term used to describe reduced levels of any nutrient than that required to meet bodily needs. 

Nutritional deficiencies can manifest in many ways depending on which nutrient is deficient. Common symptoms may include weight loss, hair loss, poor growth, swollen belly, higher susceptibility to infections, reduced wound healing, fatigue, weakness.

Various risk factors that can increase the likelihood of nutritional deficiencies include poor intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, restrictive diets, smoking, pregnancy along with some medical conditions such as Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and eating disorders.

Eating a well balanced and wholesome diet is the best way to prevent nutritional deficiencies. Treatment options include a diet rich in the deficient nutrient along with dietary supplements.