We all know that the body requires various vitamins and minerals to stay healthy, but what happens if you’re not getting enough of a particular vitamin? Can you test for vitamin deficiencies in Poplar Bluff, MO?

The answer is yes—there are ways to monitor for vitamin deficiencies, and having blood work done makes it easy to find out if you’re getting enough of your required nutrients. Here’s an overview of vitamin deficiencies and how blood work can help pinpoint any problems.

Signs of vitamin deficiencies

Here are some of the most common signs of vitamin deficiencies. If you notice a problem, be sure to talk to your doctor, and try to incorporate more foods rich in essential nutrients into your diet:

• Bleeding gums: Failing to brush your teeth, or brushing them too hard, can contribute to bleeding gums. However, if your diet is low in vitamin C, this may also contribute to or cause the problem. Vitamin C helps our immune system flourish, and also helps heal wounds. If you notice bleeding gums along with muscle weakness, easy bruising and dry skin, it’s possible you’re not getting enough vitamin C. Eat several portions of fruit and vegetables per day to combat this.
• Brittle nails and hair: Brittle nails and hair is often due to a lack of biotin, also known as vitamin B7. You might also notice muscle pain, cramps and chronic fatigue. Try eating foods rich in biotin like fish, meat, dairy, eggs, spinach, sweet potatoes and more to get a natural boost.
• Hair loss: You should lose up to 100 strands of hair per day naturally, but if you’re noticing more than that falling out, your diet may be short on biotin, iron, niacin, zinc, and linoleic or alpha linoleic acids. Try incorporating foods rich in these compounds on a daily basis.
• Poor night vision: If you’re having trouble seeing at night, you might need to consume more vitamin A. Organ meats, yellow and orange vegetables, dairy, eggs, fish and dark leafy greens are all good choices for vitamin A intake. Avoid taking supplements unless your doctor recommends it.
• Scaly patches: If you have dandruff or itchy, scaly patches on your skin, it may be due to a lack of nutrients. Zinc, niacin, riboflavin and pyridoxine deficiencies are all thought to contribute to this problem.
• Ulcers or cracks in your mouth: Iron and vitamin B deficiencies can contribute to mouth ulcers, or cracks in the corners of your mouth. If this is a problem for you, it can be caused by dehydration and other factors—but you can always adjust your diet for nutrient-rich boosts, too.

How to test for vitamin deficiency in Poplar Bluff, MO

The best way to test for vitamin deficiencies is to talk to your doctor and have blood work done. Some services offer DIY blood work, but it’s always wise to get professional medical help if you suspect you have a health issue.

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