Vitamins are essential for a proper growth and functioning of the body system. They are a part of the major food groups we know today (others are carbohydrates, proteins, fat and oil, minerals, water).
In the absence or deficiency of one or more of these vitamins, it results in various health issues and diseases.
Our body does its part by giving signs, we should then recognize these signs and restructure our diet.
Here a few common signs of vitamins deficiency in the body.
- Fragile nails and brittle hair
Lack of vitamin B7 also known as Biotin, although rare, in the body causes thinning and splitting of nails and hair. The vitamin B7 works to convert food to energy in the body. Prolonged use of antibiotics and anti-seizure medications depletes this vitamin from the body. Foods that help to replenish this nutrient include; egg yolk, meat, fish, sweet potato, spinach, nuts, bananas etc.
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- Sores in the corners of the mouth/ Mouth ulcers
Angular cheilitis is a common condition where the corners of our mouth start to crack, split or bleed and is as a result of dehydration or excess salivation. It is however caused by an insufficient intake of B vitamins (especially riboflavin) and iron. Foods rich in iron include poultry, meat, dark leafy greens and some nuts while foods rich in B vitamins include, starchy vegetables, dairy, eggs, whole grains, meat, fish, poultry etc.
- Bleeding gums
Bleeding gums can be as a result of lacking the vitamin C in our diet. Vitamin C is responsible for immunity and healing of wounds, also acting as antioxidant which prevents cell damage. To avoid this symptom, we are advised to consume fruits and fresh vegetables regularly as they are key sources of vitamin C.
- Night blindness and whitish eye growths
Deficiency of vitamin A is linked with the condition called ‘night blindness’ in which the ability to see at night is reduced or distorted. Vitamin A is required to produce a pigment, rhodopsin, in the retina of the which helps to see at night. Whitish spots on the eye can also be as a result of vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A rich foods include, eggs, fish, dairy, dark leafy green vegetables etc. If not promptly and properly treated, it leads ultimately to blindness.