Surprise! If you’re reading this right now, your body could be missing some key nutrients—and you might not even know it.
About two billion people around the world are struggling with micronutrient, or vitamin and mineral, deficiencies.1 Even if you’re not a part of that number, you may be experiencing a micronutrient inadequacy, or a less-than-optimal presence of one or two essential vitamins and minerals. It’s more common than you think: in the United States alone, a whopping 94.2% of people don’t meet the recommended daily amount of Vitamin D. And that’s just one mineral!
In short? It’s time to start taking a serious look at your micronutrient intake…and the signs it might not be enough.
What is a nutrient deficiency?
According to a recent study in the National Library of Medicine, a nutrient deficiency refers to “severely reduced levels of one or more nutrients, making the body unable to normally perform its functions.”1 These deficiencies can refer to both macronutrients (carbs, protein, and fat) and micronutrients.
Why does it matter?
Repeat after us: a machine can’t run on nothing. If your body isn’t getting enough of the key vitamins and minerals it needs to thrive, it won’t.
Nutrient deficiencies can have lasting effects on the body, including an increased likelihood of cancer, diabetes and heart disease.1 Even a micronutrient inadequacy can have long-term consequences (researchers found that a “lower micronutrient consumption” than recommended could potentially lead to metabolic disorders.)1 In the short term? Deficiencies can affect your sleep, skin, sight, and more. No thanks, no thanks, and no thanks.
If you’re currently pregnant or embarking on a conception journey, you already know that scoring those essential nutrients supports a healthy pregnancy. But keeping up with prenatal nutrition can be difficult—you’re literally eating for two! Guess which group makes up a notable percentage of the two billion experiencing nutrient deficiencies worldwide? Pregnant people.1
How can I tell if I’m nutrient deficient?
Depending on which vitamin or mineral is MIA, the signs of a deficiency can vary.
Feeling extra fatigued lately? Harvard Health suggests checking your iron, B12, and vitamin D levels.2 Having trouble focusing? Your brain fog could potentially be related to a dip in omega-3 fatty acids.
Other symptoms of various nutrient deficiencies that made our jaws drop:
- mouth ulcers;
- bone ache or pain;
- decreased vision at night (seriously!)
- and “pins and needles” in your hands and feet.3
If you’re pregnant and nutrient deficient, you may notice symptoms like:
- lack of/inadequate weight gain;
- dizziness;
- irregular heartbeat;
- or a sore tongue.4
And that’s just a few. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, or have been feeling off in any way lately, it’s likely time to consult with a medical professional.
How do I solve it?
Confirm with your doctor.
Ready to take action? Let’s connect with an expert first to make sure that you actually do have a nutrient deficiency. Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician and ask to test your micronutrient levels. This typically involves a blood test or two. Your PCP will explain which vitamins and minerals, if any, exist in lower-than-ideal quantities in your body—and offer some methods to amend it.
Jazz up that plate.
An easy way to expand your micronutrient intake? Expand what you eat every day. Aim to consume a varied, colorful diet rich in whole foods. You’ll especially want to load up on fruits and veggies, if you can: in addition to crucial vitamins like potassium and Vitamin K, they’ve got a ton of dietary fiber. Good poops = good vibes.
Take your vitamins.
C’mon, you knew we would! Supplements can be a speedy and convenient way to get the specific micronutrients your body needs. Shuddering at the thought of taking a bunch of different pills? Enter the multivitamin. We’re super fans of anything that does double, triple, or quadruple duty.
For example, if Googling “good prenatal vitamins” has been keeping you up lately, consider trying these multivitamins that contain key nutrients to support healthy fetal development and boost nutrient absorption. Think folate, choline, omegas, and Vitamin B6 to start—plus some probiotics for vaginal and digestive health.* Thank us later.
