Most Common Symptoms of Nutritional Deficiencies
Dr. Eric Berg DCPublished on June 6, 2025
Summary authored by editor@wellifi.com
TLDR Summary
Various symptoms such as thinning hair, muscle twitches, and cravings for salt can indicate nutritional deficiencies including biotin, magnesium, and sodium. Addressing these through diet changes or supplementation can support overall health.
Key Points
- Thinning hair can indicate a biotin deficiency.
- Cracks in the corner of your mouth suggest a vitamin B2 deficiency.
- Tingling in the toes points to a vitamin B1 deficiency, with benfotiamine being a recommended form.
- Muscle twitches and cramps are signs of magnesium deficiency.
- Achiness in the lower back often indicates a vitamin D deficiency.
- Vertical ridges on nails can signal a zinc deficiency.
- A chronic cough at night usually signifies a calcium deficiency.
- Cravings for salt are a classic sign of sodium deficiency, best sourced from sea salt.
- Little bumps on the back of the arm indicate a vitamin A deficiency, best sourced from cod liver oil, butter, or liver.
Nutritional Deficiencies and Their Signs
Our body communicates with us through various signs and symptoms, many of which can indicate nutritional deficiencies. Understanding these signs can help us address underlying issues by adjusting our diet or supplementing responsibly. Here's a rundown of common symptoms and the nutrients you might be missing.
Common Deficiencies and Their Signs
- Thinning Hair: A sign of biotin deficiency.
- Cracks in the Corner of Your Mouth: This symptom often points to a deficiency in vitamin B2.
- Tingling in Your Toes: Could indicate a deficiency in vitamin B1. For this, benfotiamine is a recommended form.
- Muscle Twitches and Cramps: These are classic signs of magnesium deficiency.
- Achiness in the Lower Back: Often a sign of vitamin D deficiency.
- Vertical Ridges on Nails: This can indicate a zinc deficiency.
- Chronic Cough at Night: Usually, a sign of calcium deficiency.
- Cravings for Salt: A classic sign of sodium deficiency. Opt for sea salt as a healthier source.
- Little Bumps on the Back of the Arm: Indicates a vitamin A deficiency. The best sources are cod liver oil, butter, or liver, not carrots.
Boosting Your Nutrient Intake
To combat these deficiencies, incorporating nutrient-rich foods into your diet or considering supplementation can be beneficial. However, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Conclusion
Recognizing the signs of nutritional deficiencies is the first step towards addressing them. By being mindful of these signs and adjusting your diet or supplement intake accordingly, you can support your overall health and wellbeing.