Vitamins and minerals are important for our health. They help our body work properly. If we don’t get enough of them, we can get sick. These are called deficiency diseases.
1. Vitamin A Deficiency Vitamin A helps with eyesight. If we don’t get enough, we may have night blindness. It can also make our skin dry. Children may not grow well.
2. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) Deficiency This can cause a disease called beriberi. It affects the heart, muscles, and nerves. People may feel weak and tired.
3. Vitamin C Deficiency Not enough vitamin C can cause scurvy. This makes gums bleed and wounds heal slowly. People may feel weak and have joint pain.
4. Vitamin D Deficiency This vitamin keeps bones strong. A lack of it causes rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Bones become soft and weak.
5. Vitamin K Deficiency Vitamin K helps blood to clot. Without it, cuts may bleed too much. It can also lead to bruising.
6. Iron Deficiency Iron makes hemoglobin in the blood. Low iron causes anemia. People feel tired, dizzy, and pale.
7. Iodine Deficiency Iodine helps the thyroid gland work. Without it, people may get goiter (a swollen neck). It can also slow growth and brain development in children.
8. Calcium Deficiency Calcium keeps bones and teeth strong. A lack of calcium can lead to weak bones and cramps.
9. Zinc Deficiency Zinc helps the body heal and fight infections. Without enough, people may have slow wound healing and hair loss.
How to Prevent Deficiencies Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, meat, milk, and grains. Sometimes, people need supplements. Always ask a doctor before taking them.
Conclusion Vitamins and minerals are very important. Deficiencies can cause health problems. A healthy diet can help prevent these diseases.