When your body is low on minerals, it gives you signs you might not immediately notice. You may have experienced some of these signs of mineral deficiencies and ignored them, thinking it was nothing of importance. However, your body needs these essential nutrients to function properly. Minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and potassium, support your bone health, nerve function, muscle contraction, and energy production. Mineral deficiencies can cause serious health issues, so today we are exploring 6 signs that could indicate a mineral deficiency.
- Fatigue and weakness (iron deficiency)
If you find yourself feeling weak or fatigued after getting adequate rest, you may have iron deficiency. Without sufficient iron, the production of haemoglobin is significantly affected. Haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Therefore, the blood’s ability to transport oxygen is impaired when there is insufficient iron. As a result of low iron levels, you may feel fatigued, consistently weak, and have difficulty concentrating. You may be deficient in iron if you have a poor diet or suffer blood loss.
- Muscle cramps (magnesium deficiency)
If you are always experiencing muscle cramps, there may be a chance that you have magnesium deficiency. Your body needs magnesium for your muscles to function properly, as it helps in relaxing and contracting your muscles. Magnesium is also vital in nerve signal transmission and helps with energy production. Therefore, if you find yourself with muscle cramps, spasms, or twitches, especially at night or during physical activity, then you may need more magnesium in your diet. One common health condition caused by low magnesium levels is restless leg syndrome, which is when your muscles move involuntarily.
- Brittle Hair and Nails (Zinc or Calcium Deficiency)
Some people often wonder why their hair is so unhealthy and attempt to try every home remedy to get thick, long, and bouncy hair. Other people may look at their fingernails and question why they are so thin. Two of the most important minerals that maintain the health of our hair, nails, and skin are zinc and calcium. Therefore, if your hair is thin or falling out, your nails are brittle or have white spots, and your wounds take a while to heal, you may need to add more of these minerals to your diet. Zinc supports tissue repair and cell growth, while calcium strengthens bones, nails, and hair.
- Irregular Heartbeat (Potassium Deficiency)
If your heart races often or you experience palpitations or arrhythmias, this may be due to low potassium levels. Your body needs potassium to help regulate heart rhythm and electrical impulses. Low potassium levels are typically caused by dehydration, excessive sweating, or certain medications, such as diuretics. If you have potassium deficiency, you should see a doctor because it can lead to severe cardiovascular problems.
- Bone Pain and Weakness (Calcium or Vitamin D Deficiency)
Weak bones, aching bones, fractures, and numbness in fingers or toes are consequences of calcium deficiency. Your body needs calcium to strengthen your bones and your teeth. Vitamin D helps your body to absorb the calcium you need. If you have had calcium deficiency for a long time, you are at risk of getting osteoporosis, which is a severe health condition that weakens your bones. Children who lack calcium are also at risk of getting a disease that causes bone deformities called rickets.
- Frequent Infections (Zinc Deficiency)
If you are always getting sick, whether from an infection or a common cold, your immune system is weak. Your body needs zinc because it is very important in the production of immune cells and the body’s ability to heal wounds. Therefore, if your body is low on zinc, you may frequently get colds or respiratory infections. You may also take longer to recover from illnesses. If you have chronic zinc deficiency, you are at risk of getting severe illness.
