Nutrient Deficiency Diseases to Know for Intro to Nutrition

Nutrient deficiency diseases occur when the body lacks essential vitamins and minerals, leading to various health issues. Understanding these deficiencies is crucial in nutrition, as they highlight the importance of a balanced diet for overall well-being.

1. Iron deficiency anemia

   • Caused by insufficient iron intake, leading to reduced hemoglobin production.
   • Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.
   • Common in women of childbearing age, children, and individuals with poor dietary intake.

2. Vitamin A deficiency (night blindness, xerophthalmia)

   • Leads to impaired vision, particularly in low light (night blindness).
   • Severe deficiency can cause xerophthalmia, a condition that can result in blindness.
   • Important for immune function and skin health; found in foods like carrots and leafy greens.

3. Iodine deficiency disorders (goiter)

   • Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production; deficiency can lead to goiter (enlarged thyroid).
   • Symptoms may include swelling in the neck and hormonal imbalances.
   • Common in areas with low iodine in the soil; iodized salt is a primary prevention method.

4. Vitamin D deficiency (rickets, osteomalacia)

   • Leads to rickets in children (softening of bones) and osteomalacia in adults.
   • Symptoms include bone pain, muscle weakness, and increased risk of fractures.
   • Vitamin D is obtained from sunlight, certain foods, and supplements.

5. Scurvy (Vitamin C deficiency)

   • Characterized by fatigue, swollen gums, joint pain, and anemia.
   • Vitamin C is crucial for collagen synthesis and immune function.
   • Commonly found in fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits.

6. Beriberi (Thiamine/Vitamin B1 deficiency)

   • Affects the cardiovascular and nervous systems; symptoms include weakness, nerve damage, and heart issues.
   • Common in populations with high rice consumption and low thiamine intake.
   • Thiamine is found in whole grains, legumes, and pork.

7. Pellagra (Niacin/Vitamin B3 deficiency)

   • Characterized by the "three D's": dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia.
   • Often associated with a diet low in niacin and tryptophan, particularly in corn-based diets.
   • Niacin is found in meat, fish, and whole grains.

8. Vitamin B12 deficiency (pernicious anemia)

   • Leads to pernicious anemia, characterized by fatigue, weakness, and neurological issues.
   • Common in vegetarians, vegans, and older adults due to absorption issues.
   • Found in animal products; supplementation may be necessary for those at risk.

9. Zinc deficiency

   • Symptoms include impaired immune function, hair loss, and delayed wound healing.
   • Important for growth, development, and overall health; found in meat, shellfish, and legumes.
   • Common in populations with low dietary intake or absorption issues.

10. Protein-energy malnutrition (kwashiorkor, marasmus)

    • Kwashiorkor is characterized by edema, irritability, and liver enlargement due to protein deficiency.
    • Marasmus results from overall energy deficiency, leading to severe weight loss and muscle wasting.
    • Common in areas with food scarcity and inadequate dietary protein intake.