The human body is a vast network of cellular frameworks connected by firing neurons and driven by millions of chemical signals. This delicate balance of systems helps drive us through each day, functioning normally and feeling our best. While our bodies are truly incredible, just like an automobile, they need the right fuel to stay energized and work properly. 

To further this point, imagine the food you eat, which is rich in calories, as the gas that keeps us going. Cars also require the right mix of oils and fluids to perform at their optimum levels, and so do our bodies. It’s simply not enough to fuel up with regular meals because the average diet does not contain the right mix of nutrients our bodies require to feel good and remain healthy. 

So is your check engine light on? Not literally, rather, is your body letting you know it needs a little maintenance? 

In addition to accomplishing incredible feats, our bodies are capable of letting us know something is wrong. From brittle hair to low energy, there are many symptoms that indicate your body is missing essential nutrients. 

At Omega Health and Wellness, our goal is to help our patients optimize their health and feel better. With that goal in mind, we’ve put together a shortlist of common symptoms caused by nutrient deficiencies. 

Brittle, dull, or missing hair

While hair loss is relatively common and can be caused by various genetic or hormonal factors, the rapid loss of hair is worth looking into, as it is a significant sign of nutrient deficiency. A blood test may determine if the deterioration of hair is due to hormones, stress, a new medication or a lack of key nutrients. 

A 2017 study by the National Health Institute directly linked diet and hair structure and growth. Generally, those experiencing hair loss for diet reasons were missing nutrients like: 

• Minerals, like Iron and zinc – Found in meat, fish, eggs, legumes, dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains
• Niacin (vitamin B3) – Found in meat, fish, dairy, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens
• Biotin (vitamin B7) – Found in many of the same foods as Niacin and highly concentrated in egg yolks and organ meat
• Protein –  Found in meat, fish, eggs, legumes
• Fatty acids – Found in wild salmon, walnuts, chia seeds and more

Bleeding Gums or mouth sores

Improper flossing and brushing routines are often the culprit for bleeding gums. However, it could also be a sign you may not be consuming enough vitamin C. Vitamin C plays a vital role in wound healing and immunity. It even acts as an antioxidant, helping prevent cell damage. The addition of more Vitamin-C-rich foods in your diet may help reverse specific bleeding issues and help wounds heal more quickly.

There are many foods to turn to if you’re trying to squeeze more vitamin C into your diet. They include world-famous Florida oranges (or any), bell peppers, broccoli, berries, papaya, spinach, tomatoes, potatoes, and even peas. 

Waterweight, bloating and constipation

Frequent feelings of bloat, constipation and sluggishness can be a telltale sign your body may be in dire need of more fiber and could even be dehydrated. Medical professionals agree-fiber content is an essential component of a healthy diet and healthy gut. A diet lacking in fiber can lead to issues in the bathroom, most notably constipation, defined as having less than three bowel movements per week. 

Most Americans fall short of the 25-35 recommended grams of fiber per day. This is due mainly to diets lacking in fruit and whole vegetables. Other foods high in fiber include nuts, seeds, beans and whole grains. 

Are you experiencing one or more of these symptoms? Need advice on vitamins and supplements to feel better? Our expert Jacksonville health and wellness team can help! Call us today at +1 904-724-5767 for a free phone consultation or make an appointment. We are happy to answer your questions and make recommendations on the products and nutrients you need to achieve your optimum level of health.