Mineral deficiency
Calcium
Osteoporosis is caused by loss of bone density. People with this condition are at greater risk of
fracturing bones, especially wrists, hips and vertebrae. Any activity that promotes stronger bones
will help to prevent osteoporosis, so walking and running are good. Calcium- rich foods, such as
cheese, milk, bread and tinned fish should be included in the diet. It is important also to have
enough Vitamin D as calcium cannot be absorbed without it.
Iron
Iron deficiency is known as anaemia. Iron is required in the formation of healthy red blood cells, and
helps the body to use oxygen efficiently. Symptoms of anaemia include fatigue, brittle fingernails,
weakness and lack of energy. Asian people may become anaemic as they have a diet low in iron.
Teenage girls are sometimes anaemic due to blood loss from starting mensuration. It can be easily
treated by tasking iron supplements and eating iron- rich foods, such as red meat and dark green
leafy vegetables.
Nutrient excess
Tooth decay, which is also known as dental caries, is caused by an excess of sugar in the diet.
Bacteria, food and saliva combine and form sticky deposits (plaque) which are deposited on the
teeth. Plaque is acid and over time it will dissolve the enamel on the teeth, causing cavities. If they
remain untreated, they can kill the tooth’s nerve and blood supply and eventually the whole tooth
will die. Sugary foods and drinks should be kept to a minimum and good dental hygiene observed.
The problem can be caused by a calcium
deficiency.
This is the difference between normal bones and
rickets which can be caused by deficiencies.
Calcium
Osteoporosis is caused by loss of bone density. People with this condition are at greater risk of
fracturing bones, especially wrists, hips and vertebrae. Any activity that promotes stronger bones
will help to prevent osteoporosis, so walking and running are good. Calcium- rich foods, such as
cheese, milk, bread and tinned fish should be included in the diet. It is important also to have
enough Vitamin D as calcium cannot be absorbed without it.
Iron
Iron deficiency is known as anaemia. Iron is required in the formation of healthy red blood cells, and
helps the body to use oxygen efficiently. Symptoms of anaemia include fatigue, brittle fingernails,
weakness and lack of energy. Asian people may become anaemic as they have a diet low in iron.
Teenage girls are sometimes anaemic due to blood loss from starting mensuration. It can be easily
treated by tasking iron supplements and eating iron- rich foods, such as red meat and dark green
leafy vegetables.
Nutrient excess
Tooth decay, which is also known as dental caries, is caused by an excess of sugar in the diet.
Bacteria, food and saliva combine and form sticky deposits (plaque) which are deposited on the
teeth. Plaque is acid and over time it will dissolve the enamel on the teeth, causing cavities. If they
remain untreated, they can kill the tooth’s nerve and blood supply and eventually the whole tooth
will die. Sugary foods and drinks should be kept to a minimum and good dental hygiene observed.
The problem can be caused by a calcium
deficiency.
This is the difference between normal bones and
rickets which can be caused by deficiencies.
