6 signs of nutritional deficiency in the body. How is your body?

Most white-collar workers tend to ignore the importance of a nutritious diet. It is very common to eat one meal full and one meal hungry, and to eat snacks and fruits as staple foods. Little do people know that these behaviors can make it difficult for the body to absorb adequate nutrition. Nutritional deficiencies and malnutrition are difficult to detect because they persist for some time before any symptoms appear. In fact, we only have a few indicators to help you determine whether your body is malnourished.

1. Unexplained fatigue

Fatigue is a common side effect of iron deficiency, which can lead to anemia, or a low number of red blood cells in the blood. Anemia can also make us look pale. Keep in mind, though, that serious medical conditions like heart disease, depression, or thyroid problems can also cause excessive fatigue.

If you feel unusually weak or tired, it is wise to tell your doctor about these symptoms.

2. Dry and brittle hair

Protein is the main component of our hair and is therefore often used as an indicator to diagnose nutritional deficiencies. "When an older person's hair looks like a scare wig -- brittle, dry and thinning -- it's often a sign that the diet is not adequate," says the nutritionist.

Weak hair can reflect deficiencies in essential fatty acids, protein, iron, and other nutrients. While some hair loss is normal as you age, if your hair begins to fall out at an abnormal rate, nutritional deficiencies may be the cause. Once your doctor determines that a nutritional deficiency is causing these problems, they can treat it with diet or nutritional supplements.

3. Mouth problems

Cracks or inflammation around the mouth (angular cheilitis) may be a sign of vitamin B2 or iron deficiency. An abnormally swollen or pale tongue is also a sign of iron and vitamin B2 deficiency.

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is still a disease of unknown cause. It is generally believed that it may be caused by iron, zinc or vitamin B deficiency.

4. Ridged or spoon-shaped nails

Fingernails, like hair, are good indicators for early warning signs of dietary deficiencies. Spoon-shaped nails can be an indicator of iron deficiency anemia.

If you have iron deficiency anemia, your doctor may recommend iron supplements and iron-rich foods such as liver and shellfish (clams, oysters, mussels).

5. Loss of appetite

As we age, our appetite often decreases. Taste buds lose the sensitivity they should have. Since older people tend to be less active, they need fewer calories. Medications may also suppress appetite.

Chronic loss of appetite can be a serious warning sign that you are at high risk for nutritional deficiencies. If you find yourself skipping meals because you're not hungry, you should talk to your doctor about it. A blood test can reveal which important nutritional deficiencies you may have. Having a professional nutritionist evaluate your food intake can also help identify nutritional deficiencies.

6. Diarrhea

Chronic diarrhea can be a sign of malnutrition, which means nutrients are not being adequately absorbed by the body. Infection, surgery, certain medications, heavy alcohol use, and indigestion can all lead to malnutrition.

It is important to consult a doctor when you have frequent diarrhea.