Vitamins are nutrients that the body needs in small amounts for its function, maintenance and growth, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
“Vitamins are organic substances present in very small amounts in food, but necessary for metabolism,” explains the FAO. Usually, sources of vitamins are in foods of plant and animal origin, and in dietary supplements.
Among the best known vitamins are vitamin A, B (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B12 and folic acid), C and D. These are grouped together because, as their name implies, they are factors vital in the diet.
Also, all vitamins were discovered in relation to the diseases that cause their deficiency, according to the FAO. Other vitamins known to be vital to health include: pantothenic acid, biotin (vitamin H), vitamin E, and vitamin K (antihemorrhagic vitamin).
Vitamin deficiency gives way to the development of simple or chronic diseases. Even, there are some symptoms associated with the lack of nutrients in the body. The specialized portal Health180 listed some of them:
- Red rashes on the face: the chemical changes due to the lack of vitamin B6 can generate eruptions and rashes, mainly on the face, although experts affirm that this symptom manifests itself following several months or years.
- Brittle nails: a healthy appearance of the nails is a reflection of the good health of the organism. According to the health portal unCOMO, there are six vitamins that promote good nail health and allow them to regain their strength. These are vitamin B7, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E.
- Tingling, numbness, and tingling in the hands or feet: When a person suffers from poor circulation, they may experience numbness or tingling in these parts of the body. the portal focused on health and wellness Saludaio explained the consumption of vitamins E, C, B and K are essential to prevent this problem.
- Depression: Experts point out on the Mayo Clinic portal that vitamin B12 and other B vitamins play an important role in the production of chemicals in the brain that can affect mood. “Low levels of vitamin B-12 and other B vitaminssuch as vitamin B-6 and folic acid, may be related to depression”, highlights the portal.
- Cracks at the edges of the mouth: radiant and hydrated lips can be a good sign of health. For this, a good diet rich in micronutrients and vitamins is important, as well as the proper use of cosmetics. Dry, scaly lips and also swollen tongue can be a result of a lack of vitamins such as those of the B complex.
- White spots and acne: these spots are usually not a cause for concern or trigger other symptoms. The lack of calcium, vitamin E and D can cause the appearance of these small spots. For this, it is essential to increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables and vary them among themselves, to reach the nutrients of the majority.
- Muscle cramps: Muscle cramps are a frequent and well-known annoyance for most people. Among the main causes that can cause this discomfort, Medline Plus points out, are muscle tension, dehydration, compression of the nerves, a deficit of electrolytes such as calcium or potassium, as well as a lack of nutrients such as vitamin B12.
- Anemia and weakness: anemia occurs when there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the blood. On many occasions, this disease can occur due to vitamin deficiency, especially B12 and folate.
