Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a California-based gastroenterologist, has identified five clear signs that indicate a person’s body may be lacking essential nutrients. These signs include brittle nails, eyelid twitching, joint clicking, premature greying of hair, and easy bruising. The recognition of these signs is important, as they can serve as early warnings for potential nutritional deficiencies that could impact overall health.
This comes in the context of a recent study revealing that more than half of the global population does not consume sufficient micronutrients, such as calcium, iron, and vitamins C and E.
Brittle nails are often a sign of protein and iron deficiency. According to Dr. Sethi, the nails are primarily made of keratin, a protein that requires adequate dietary intake to maintain strength and health. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight; for a person weighing 68 kg, this amounts to about 54 grams daily.
Common causes of brittle nails can also include frequent handwashing, the use of acetone nail polish removers, dry weather, aging, and health issues like thyroid disorders or iron deficiency anemia. Foods rich in iron, such as red meat, fish, and leafy greens, are suggested for improving nail health.
Eyelid twitching, or myokymia, can signal a magnesium deficiency, which is essential for nerve function. This involuntary muscle contraction may result from various factors, including stress, fatigue, excessive caffeine consumption, and electrolyte imbalances. Dr. Sethi emphasizes the importance of consulting a doctor before starting magnesium supplements to ensure the appropriate type and dosage is taken, as magnesium is crucial for muscle function and overall health.
The clicking or popping sound from joints can indicate a deficiency in vitamin D3 or calcium, especially as individuals age. Calcium is vital for building and maintaining strong bones, while vitamin D helps the body absorb this mineral from dietary sources. Dr. Sethi points out that maintaining adequate levels of these nutrients is critical for joint health and overall skeletal integrity.
Premature greying of hair and easy bruising can also be signs of nutritional deficiencies. Premature greying is often linked to genetics and may also indicate a deficiency in vitamin B12, which is vital for red blood cell production, or copper, essential for melanin production.
Bruising easily could suggest a lack of vitamin C, which is important for collagen formation, or vitamin K1, which plays a role in blood clotting. Understanding these signs can lead to better dietary choices and health outcomes, highlighting the importance of nutrition in maintaining bodily functions and appearance.
