A nutrient deficiency usually does not develop overnight. It often develops gradually when certain vitamins, minerals, or other essential nutrients are not adequately consumed over a long period.
A varied diet is therefore an important foundation for good nutrient intake. Especially in the case of unbalanced diets, severely restricted diets, or specific life situations, it is worth paying closer attention to your own nutrition.
In this article, you will learn about the possible causes of a nutrient deficiency, the signs to look out for, and how you can make your diet more varied.
What are the causes of nutrient deficiency?
Possible risk factors include, for example:
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severely restricted diets
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unbalanced diet
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very limited food selection
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vegetarian or vegan diet without sufficient planning
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certain life phases with increased nutrient requirements
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certain medical conditions or limited nutrient absorption
The crucial factor here is not the dietary form alone. A vegetarian or vegan diet can also be varied and nutrient-rich. It is more important that the menu includes as many different food groups as possible.
Variety is the key
Whether it's a mixed diet, vegetarian, or vegan diet: a varied food selection helps to absorb different nutrients through your nutrition.
Fruit and vegetables, pulses, whole grain products, nuts and seeds, as well as – depending on your dietary form – other suitable foods can contribute to a diverse menu.
The more varied your plate is, the greater the selection of vitamins and minerals you can obtain through your diet generally is.
Nutrient deficiency and nutrition: Why a balanced selection is important
A crash diet, for example, is not automatically a good diet just because it can lead to short-term weight loss.
If only very few foods are eaten over a long period, the selection of important nutrients can be significantly restricted. A diet that, for example, consists almost exclusively of a few high-protein foods can neglect other food groups and thus important sources of nutrients.
The same applies to any other form of diet: it is not the name of the diet that alone determines its quality, but above all the actual choice of food.
A balanced diet should therefore be as diverse as possible.
Optional: Product box for a slow juicer as a supplement to the topic of fruit and vegetables.
What symptoms can occur with a nutrient deficiency?
If a deficiency is suspected, a medical examination may be useful.
Magnesium
Magnesium contributes, among other things, to normal muscle function. In the case of a severe magnesium deficiency, muscle problems, among others, can occur.