what is Vitamin deficiency ?Posted by athinahealthcare on April 7th, 2021 Let us first understand the basics of vitamins Vitamin is an essential micronutrient which an organism needs in small quantities for the proper functioning of its metabolism. In humans there are 13 vitamins: 4 fat-soluble (A, D, E and K) and 9 water-soluble (8 B vitamins and vitamin C). While fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body’s fatty tissue, Water-soluble vitamins cannot be stored in the body and are therefore needed by our body from food sources i.e., B vitamins and vitamin C. Importance of VitaminsVitamins are vital to life and healthy living. Failing to get the necessary amounts of specific vitamins can cause various deficiencies that may be dangerous. Thus, a sufficient intake of vitamins is crucial to prevent the development of deficiency-related diseases. In addition, some vitamins have a considerable potential in health promotion and disease treatment. Vitamins and supplements are there to complement the nutrients you get from food and bring you one step closer to your health and wellness goals.
What happens when there are Vitamin DeficienciesVitamin deficiency occurs when the body doesn’t absorb the required amount of a vitamin. It may also occur in people who are picky eaters and don’t consume a lot of variety in their food eating habits, or in people who avoid certain food segments, whether it be for personal reasons or due to some specific health condition. Vitamin deficiencies remain common globally. Unless severe, they are often clinically unrecognized, yet even mild deficiency may have adverse consequences. These affect all ages and frequently co-exist with mineral (zinc, iron, iodine) deficiencies. The people most vulnerable to vitamin deficiencies are pregnant and lactating women, and young children, because of their relatively high needs for these compounds.
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