A nutrient deficit, also known as a nutritional deficiency, occurs when the body does not get enough of a specific nutrient that it needs to function properly. This can happen due to inadequate intake from your diet, lifestyle factors, life-stage impacts and significantly medication. At Vitmedics we are specialists on the impact of medications and how all of these cumulative effects can alter how the body digests, absorbs, metabolises and excretes nutrients. Nutrient deficits can lead to a wide range of health problems, depending on which nutrient is lacking.

Symptoms of nutrient deficiencies can vary depending on the nutrient in question. For example, a deficiency in vitamin C can lead to scurvy, which causes fatigue, weakness, joint and muscle pain, and bleeding gums. A deficiency in iron can lead to anaemia, which causes fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and headaches. Other examples of nutrient deficiencies and associated symptoms include vitamin D deficiency (bone pain, muscle weakness, fatigue), magnesium deficiency (muscle cramps, insomnia, anxiety), and omega-3 fatty acid deficiency (dry skin, hair loss, depression).

But many nutrient deficits may not show obvious symptoms, or show them at all but they are still important to identify and address. This is because nutrient deficiencies can contribute to a wide range of health problems, even if they do not cause noticeable symptoms.

One example of a nutrient deficit that may not show as symptoms is vitamin B12 deficiency. This can occur in people who take certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or metformin, which can interfere with vitamin B12 absorption. Over time, a vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to nerve damage, anaemia, and other serious health problems.

Other medications may also cause nutrient deficits, such as statins, which can deplete levels of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a nutrient that is important for heart health and energy production. Similarly, diuretics can cause electrolyte imbalances and deplete levels of important minerals such as potassium and magnesium.

It is important for people to be aware of these potential nutrient deficits and why at Vitmedics we provide our free online assessment to understand if you have any nutrient deficits. Our personalised reports always highlight the importance of consuming these nutrients through foods first, but if the deficit is significant it may involve taking supplements, modifying their diet, or making other lifestyle changes to support optimal health and well-being.

Personalised nutrition and supplements are important because everyone's nutritional needs are unique and vary based on factors such as age, gender, genetics, lifestyle, and health status. Customised nutrition and supplement plans can help individuals optimise their nutrient intake to meet their individual needs, prevent nutrient deficiencies, and promote overall health and well-being.

So if you are taking medication or are concerned about your nutrient status, you may even just be intrigued to know your body better; take our online assessment and within a matter of minutes you will be provided with a personalised, evidence-based report specific to your nutrient needs. 

Try our multi-award winning assessment here.