Every morning without fail I make sure the boys take their chewy multivitamin. I think now more than ever I want them to keep topped up! Especially as there have been some reports that vitamin D can help reduce the risk of coronavirus. Well that and making sure you have your 20 minutes in the sunshine, sleeves rolled up! But what are the signs of vitamin deficiency?

I thought it would be a good idea to mention some here. Since being in lockdown I do not think I have eaten as well. I have craved comfort food to cheer myself up and probably missed out on some key nutrients. I am probably not alone in this. Talking to my friends they have eaten MUCH more cake or chocolate than usual. But with the lockdown continuing its time to get back on track. Let’s make sure our bodies are getting the goodness they need to stay strong and healthy.

Take A Test

Probably the most reliable way to check your current levels of vitamins is through nutritional testing. Sites such as HealthLabs.com are a good starting point, if you find out you are deficient of a vitamin you can modify your diet straight away to remedy the problem. It is vital for our well being that our body is not deprived of essential vitamins and minerals so it can function normally. If you are based in the US and want 15% of one of these tests please use this link.

Physical Changes

There are lots of physical checks you can do as well. Although it does require you to be observant and notice changes in your body.  For example, a change in the thickness of your hair could indicate a vitamin B deficiency. But if you are on the go and busy all the time little changes like that might go unnoticed and you risk your health deteriorating.

Ulcers and Bleeding Gums

I usually know I am run down when I start to get an ulcer in my mouth and then I try and eat differently to fix it as quickly as possible. Bleeding gums can be a sign of a Vitamin C deficiency. I did notice some when I was brushing my teeth last night and though it was just my tooth brushing technique! However today I am going to make sure I get adequate fruit and vegetables and put the chocolate bar back when I feel peckish just in case. However, if my bleeding gums persist, I’ll be sure to fix painful oral issues with Dental Care Team for top notch services.

Dandruff

I only just learnt that dandruff can be a sign of a dietary deficiency. I always thought other factors were to blame so from now on at the first signs of those white flakes I will make sure I up the nutrient levels in my body!

Feeling Tired

If you are exhausted even though you are going to sleep at a decent time, then you could have a vitamin D deficiency. To address this, you need to top up on Vitamin D rich foods. Alternatively take a suitable supplement like Fultium Daily D3. We have been fortunate with the weather lately so getting adequate Vitamin D from being outdoors is achievable. It is quite surprising what you need to eat to get enough Vitamin D in your diet. Radio’s 2 Dr Sarah Jarvis said you would need to eat 10+ tins of tuna, 6 boiled eggs or 10 rump steaks to get enough Vitamin D! So, I think time outdoors and a suitable supplement seem more sensible.

So, whether you decide to take a test or look out for signs, its important to address vitamin deficiencies straight away.