Core messages
💡 Nutrient deficiencies can lead to fatigue, concentration problems, and more.
💡 Blood tests show which vitamins or minerals are missing.
💡 Targeted measures help to optimally supply the body.
What is meant by nutrient deficiency?
Do you often feel powerless, exhausted and accompanied by headaches ? Concentration problems or the constant feeling of lack of drive can also be indications that your body is missing important nutrients.
A nutrient deficiency often goes unnoticed but leads to symptoms that can significantly affect your daily life. By specifically checking your blood values , deficiencies can be detected and treated early before they lead to long-term complaints.
Give your body what it needs and regain energy and quality of life – it starts with a simple step: testing your blood values.
We also recommend the ZDF report and the Barmer article on nutrient deficiency.
What nutrients does your body need?
Our body requires various nutrients to carry out metabolic processes and perform bodily functions correctly. A distinction is made between macro and micronutrients:
Macronutrients
Macronutrients are the energy suppliers for the human organism. These include carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, which are responsible for building our cells.
Micronutrients
Micronutrients, on the other hand, regulate various processes in the body, such as our metabolism and immune system. They include vitamins, minerals, and trace elements.
A nutrient deficiency occurs when your body is not supplied with sufficient nutrients. This then leads to restricted processes and functions.
Nutrient deficiency – know and avoid the causes
The human organism cannot produce some nutrients on its own that it needs to maintain bodily functions. These must be supplied, for example, through a balanced diet. If this does not happen, the body is undersupplied, leading to a nutrient deficiency.
In principle, two levels of nutrient deficiencies are distinguished: marginal and absolute.
Marginal Nutrient Deficiency
In the case of a marginal nutrient deficiency, the body's functionality and performance are limited due to the lack of nutrients, but its viability is not endangered. In this case, carbohydrates in the body become scarce, or the organism shows a deficiency in vitamins and minerals. However, all symptoms disappear completely as soon as the missing nutrients are reabsorbed in sufficient quantities.
Absolute nutrient deficit
An absolute nutrient deficit describes the permanent undersupply of a body with nutrients. The reason for this is the complete lack of required nutrients in the diet. As a result, vital basic functions can no longer be maintained and corresponding deficiency symptoms occur.
What tests can I do if I suspect a nutrient deficiency?
Nutrient Check Premium
Keep track of your nutrient supply – for more energy and performance.
- Comprehensive analysis: Measurement of key nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, ferritin, folic acid, and vitamin D3.
- Early detection: Identifies deficiencies before they affect your health.
- Simple & flexible: Sampling conveniently from home with professional lab analysis.
This way, you can detect early on what your body is missing – and what it needs.
Tip: Our new Comprehensive Nutrient Checkoffers an even more complete picture of your nutrient levels.
Vitamin D Check Plus
More than just Vitamin D – for a comprehensive assessment of your nutrient supply.
- Targeted Analysis: Measures Vitamin D, Calcium, and Magnesium – three closely linked values for bones, muscles, and the immune system.
Early Detection: Identifies deficiencies before they affect your well-being.
Convenient & reliable: Easily conduct sampling at home, access lab results digitally.
Good to know if your body is getting what it truly needs.
Tip: Our new Comprehensive Nutrient Checkoffers an even more extensive overview of vitamins and other nutrients.
Burnout Stress Check
More than Cortisol!
Chronic stress often goes unnoticed – learn how your body reacts to it.
- Precise stress analysis: Measurement of cortisol, TSH (sensitive), magnesium, hemoglobin, folic acid, and transcobalamin to assess your stress levels and nutrient supply.
- Early detection: Identifies stressors and nutrient deficiencies before they affect your health.
- Convenient & discreet: Sample collection easily from home – professionally evaluated.
Identify potential stressors and gain valuable insights for your well-being.
Causes of nutrient deficiency
Unilateral nutrition
A balanced and varied diet forms the basis for a healthy and balanced lifestyle. The body receives sufficient nutrients and can coordinate both a functioning immune system and a healthy metabolism.
A one-sided diet, especially one predominantly characterized by fast food, does not offer the body a variety of nutrients, leading to deficiencies.
Changed nutrient requirements
Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, or athletes, in particular, require more nutrients due to their increased consumption. If food intake is not adjusted to meet this demand, it can lead to a nutrient deficiency.
Diseases
Certain conditions, such as intestinal diseases or chronic illnesses, can lead to nutrients no longer being properly absorbed by the body, resulting in a nutrient deficiency.
Luxury goods
Regular and excessive consumption of alcohol, coffee, sugary foods, nicotine, and other stimulants contributes to the impairment of the body's nutrient absorption.
Mental health issues
Mental issues, such as depression, can lead to loss of appetite or gastrointestinal complaints, resulting in insufficient nutrient intake and a deficiency.
Vegan Nutrition
Even a vegan diet, which is based on plant-based foods, can lead to a nutrient deficiency, as certain nutrients, such as vitamin B12, are present in significant amounts only in animal products and thus cannot be absorbed.
Recognize and treat nutrient deficiencies
Particularly affected by nutrient deficiency are elderly people, individuals under constant stress, as well as alcoholics or people who consume other drugs.
Common Defects and Their Impacts
Iron Deficiency
Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies worldwide. It often leads to symptoms such as constant fatigue, paleness, concentration problems, and a weakened immune system. Women, vegetarians, and vegans are particularly at risk. A blood test measures the ferritin level and provides information about the body's iron reserves.
Vitamin D Deficiency
A deficiency in vitamin D is particularly common in regions with little sunlight. It manifests as muscle weakness, bone pain, and an increased risk of infections. Since vitamin D is produced in the skin through sunlight, supplementation may be necessary, especially in winter.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 is essential for blood formation and the nervous system. A deficiency can cause fatigue, memory problems, tingling in the extremities, and anemia.Vegans and people with impaired absorption in the intestines are often affected. Blood tests help to detect a deficiency early.
Magnesium Deficiency
A deficiency in magnesium can cause muscle cramps, nervousness, sleep disorders, and heart arrhythmias. Causes are often stress, intense sports, or an unbalanced diet. A targeted intake through diet or supplements can usually compensate for a deficiency well.
Folic Acid Deficiency
Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is crucial for cell division and blood formation. A deficiency often occurs during pregnancy and can increase the risk of malformations in the unborn child. Symptoms include fatigue and anemia. Supplementation is necessary in many cases.
With the right nutrition to a healthy lifestyle
If you want to counteract a nutrient deficiency, a balanced and varied diet forms the stable foundation. Pay attention to a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins , and healthy fats. Incorporate plenty of vegetables and fruits into your meal plan and make your diet as colorful and natural as possible.
Avoid as much as possible:
- fast food and industrially processed foods
- sugary foods and drinks
- alcohol, nicotine , and other intoxicants
In addition to a healthy diet, adequate exercise and regular sun exposure also play an important role. If you notice symptoms such as fatigue, lethargy, or dizziness, do not jump to conclusions.Always discuss any potential concerns with a doctorbefore taking action.
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Ensure sufficient exercise and regular sun exposure, and do not jump to conclusions if you notice the mentioned symptoms in yourself. Always consult a doctor if you have any concerns before taking appropriate action.
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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Causes and Treatment of Fatigue
What is a nutrient deficiency?
What is a nutrient deficiency?
A nutrient deficiency occurs when the body does not receive enough vitamins, minerals, or other essential nutrients necessary for its function. This can lead to various health problems.
How do I recognize a nutrient deficiency?
How do I recognize a nutrient deficiency?
Typical signs of a nutrient deficiency include fatigue, brittle nails, hair loss, difficulty concentrating, and general discomfort. A blood test can provide information about specific deficiencies.
Which nutrients are most commonly affected by a deficiency?
Which nutrients are most commonly affected by a deficiency?
The most common nutrient deficiencies include Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, iron, folic acid, and magnesium. These nutrients are essential for many bodily functions and should be regularly monitored.
How can I prevent a nutrient deficiency?
How can I prevent a nutrient deficiency?
A balanced diet with sufficient fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats as well as fish can help prevent nutrient deficiencies. In some cases, dietary supplements are advisable.
How is a nutrient deficiency treated?
How is a nutrient deficiency treated?
The treatment depends on the specific deficiency. Often, it is sufficient to adjust the diet or take targeted dietary supplements. In cases of severe deficiencies, medical treatment may be necessary.
