7 signs that indicate vitamin deficiency

Vitamins are organic compounds that are essential for the proper functioning of our organism; they enable the body's biological demands to be met.
A deficiency in them can cause symptoms and disorders that are often overlooked or attributed to other causes.
Here are seven common signs that could indicate a vitamin deficiency.

1. Dry, cracked skin
   Dry, cracked or flaky skin may indicate a deficiency of vitamin A or B vitamins. Vitamin A is essential for cell regeneration, while B vitamins help keep the dermis hydrated and healthy.
2. Tiredness and fatigue
   Constant tiredness even after a good night's rest may indicate a deficiency of vitamin B12 or iron, the latter being necessary for the production of red blood cells and the transport of oxygen in the body. A vitamin D deficiency may also contribute to the feeling of fatigue.
3. Brittle nails and weak hair
   Easily breaking nails and dull or falling hair can be signs of a deficiency in biotin (vitamin B7), which is essential for healthy skin, hair and nails.
4. Bleeding gums and easy bruising
   Gums that bleed easily or bruises that appear for no apparent reason may indicate a vitamin C deficiency. This vitamin is essential for the production of collagen, which helps keep blood vessels healthy and strong.
5. Muscle weakness and joint pain
   A feeling of muscle weakness or joint pain without an apparent cause can mean a vitamin D deficiency. This vitamin is essential for bone and muscle health, and its insufficiency can lead to persistent pain and reduced muscle strength.
6. Tingling and numbness in the extremities
   Frequent tingling or numbness in the hands and feet could be a symptom of a deficiency in B vitamins, particularly B6, B12 and folate. These vitamins are crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system and the transmission of nerve impulses.
7. Frequent muscle cramps
   Recurrent muscle cramps, especially in the legs, may be attributable to a deficiency in vitamin D, which plays an important role in calcium absorption and muscle health. Magnesium, potassium and calcium are in fact essential minerals for proper muscle function.

Most vitamins must be taken in through food (although a small portion is produced by our bodies) so to avoid a vitamin deficiency, it is important to eat a balanced diet rich in fresh, natural foods. Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and dairy products provide most of the necessary vitamins.
If you are not able to supplement all the necessary vitamins through your diet (due to particularly restrictive diets or absorption problems), you can resort to the use of food supplements that allow you to take vitamins to supplement your diet.

In conclusion, vitamins are essential for the proper functioning of our bodies and a deficiency in one can be detected by certain signs.
In order to avoid this, it is necessary to maintain a good diet, and if this is not possible, food supplements can be used.