23. Signs of Vitamin / Mineral Deficiencies
Vitamins and minerals are needed only in small quantity but their role in health is great. Many health and nutrition authorities believe a balanced diet will provide all the vitamins and minerals needed without taking supplements. Exceptions may be pregnant women, persons with medical problems and senior citizens who do not absorb nutrients as well.
The following are some signs of deficiencies
and the nutrient lacking in the diet:
| Night blindness | Vitamin A |
| Bone diseases, rickets | Vitamin D and Calcium |
| Excessive bleeding, liver damage | Vitamin K |
| Anxiety, nausea | Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) |
| Sores around nose and mouth, visual problems | Riboflavin |
| Weakness, irritability | Vitamin B5 |
| Skin diseases | Niacin |
| Depression, confusion | Vitamin B6 (Pantothenic Acid) |
| Anemia, diarrhea, bleeding gums, stomach upset | Folic Acid |
| Loose teeth, bleeding gums, easy bruising | Vitamin C |
| Muscle weakness, cramps | Magnesium |
| Weakness, fatigue, headache, anemia | Iron |
| Slow wound healing, loss of appetite, slow growth |
Zinc |
| Muscle weakness, cardia arrhythmias | Potassium |