Your body needs a steady supply of vitamins and minerals to function properly. These nutrients support everything from your immune system to your mental health and energy levels. But what happens when you are not getting enough? Vitamin deficiencies and mineral deficiencies can sneak up quietly, causing symptoms that are easy to overlook or blame on stress, ageing, or lifestyle.
At Dr. Jolandi Meyer’s practice, we see many patients struggling with fatigue, hair loss, brain fog, and other vague symptoms, only to discover that nutrient deficiencies are the root cause. In this post, we highlight the most common silent signs of deficiencies and what you can do to restore your health.
Why Vitamins and Minerals Matter
Vitamins and minerals are essential for growth, repair, metabolism, and protection against illness. Each nutrient plays a specific role in your body. Without the right balance, your system can become imbalanced, leading to health problems over time.
Some nutrients your body cannot store well, like Vitamin C and B vitamins, which means you need to replenish them regularly through your diet. Others, like Vitamin D or iron, are stored but can still become deficient without the right intake or absorption.
Common Causes of Nutrient Deficiencies
You do not need to be underweight or on a restrictive diet to be deficient in nutrients. Here are some common reasons deficiencies occur:
Poor diet – processed foods and low-nutrient meals
Digestive issues – such as IBS, Crohn’s disease, or low stomach acid
Medications – including antacids, blood pressure meds, and antibiotics
Chronic stress – which depletes key nutrients
Ageing – nutrient absorption decreases with age
Alcohol or smoking – which interferes with absorption and increases demand
Pregnancy or breastfeeding – increased nutritional needs
Even people trying to eat healthily can fall short, especially if their diet lacks variety.
10 Silent Signs of Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies
Below are some of the most common, yet subtle, signs that your body may not be getting enough essential nutrients:
1. Fatigue That Doesn’t Improve With Sleep
Feeling constantly tired despite sleeping well? Low levels of iron, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, or magnesium can leave you drained. These nutrients help produce energy in your cells and support oxygen delivery throughout the body.
2. Hair Loss or Thinning
Hair health depends on adequate levels of iron, zinc, biotin, and Vitamin D. If your hair is falling out more than usual or becoming brittle, a deficiency might be involved.
3. Cracks at the Corners of the Mouth
Also known as angular cheilitis, this can be a sign of iron or Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) deficiency. It may also indicate poor overall nutrient absorption.
4. Numbness or Tingling in Hands and Feet
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause neurological symptoms like tingling, numbness, or balance issues. If left untreated, it may lead to nerve damage.
5. Brain Fog or Trouble Concentrating
If your memory feels fuzzy or you’re having difficulty focusing, low levels of B vitamins, iron, magnesium, or omega-3 fatty acids might be to blame.
6. Muscle Cramps or Twitching
Magnesium, calcium, and potassium are all vital for muscle function. Frequent cramps or spasms may point to low levels of one or more of these minerals.
7. Pale or Yellowing Skin
A pale complexion can indicate iron deficiency or low Vitamin B12, while a yellow tinge might suggest a deficiency in Vitamin B9 (folate) or liver-related issues.
8. Slow Wound Healing
If your cuts or bruises take longer to heal, you may be low in Vitamin C, zinc, or protein. These are critical for tissue repair and immune response.
9. Brittle Nails or Spoon-Shaped Nails
Nails that are thin, break easily, or curve upward at the edges may point to iron or calcium deficiency.
10. Mood Changes, Irritability, or Anxiety
Low levels of B vitamins, magnesium, and omega-3s are closely linked to mood regulation. Persistent anxiety or low mood can sometimes be improved with proper nutrition.
How to Test for Nutrient Deficiencies
If you’re experiencing several of these symptoms, it’s important not to self-diagnose. Some symptoms overlap with other medical conditions, and taking unnecessary supplements may do more harm than good.
At Dr. Jolandi Meyer’s practice, we offer:
Full nutritional and lifestyle assessments
Blood tests to measure levels of key vitamins and minerals
Digestive health evaluations, if absorption is a concern
Personalised dietary and supplement plans
Getting the right diagnosis means you can address the real issue and start feeling better.
What You Can Do To Prevent Deficiencies
Prevention is better than cure, especially when it comes to nutrition. Here’s how to support optimal nutrient intake:
1. Eat a Variety of Whole Foods
Focus on colourful fruits, leafy greens, legumes, whole grains, lean proteins, seeds, and healthy fats.
2. Limit Processed Foods
Fast food and overly processed snacks are usually high in calories and low in nutrients.
3. Supplement Smartly
If you have a diagnosed deficiency or higher needs (e.g., pregnancy, ageing), targeted supplements can help – but always under medical supervision.
4. Address Digestive Issues
Poor absorption can lead to deficiencies even if your diet is balanced.
5. Recheck Levels Periodically
Nutrient needs change over time. Annual blood work can help catch deficiencies early.
Vitamin deficiencies and mineral deficiencies may not always be obvious, but your body is always communicating. Symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, and mood swings are worth paying attention to. Identifying and correcting nutrient imbalances can drastically improve your energy, immunity, and quality of life.
If you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jolandi Meyer. She will help you get to the root of the problem and guide you toward better health, one nutrient at a time.
Common Ailments Treated by Dr. Jolandi Meyer
Dr. Jolandi Meyer’s expertise and comprehensive treatment options make her an exceptional General Practitioner for addressing all ailments. She provides personalised care, empowering patients to achieve optimal health. Her compassionate approach ensures patients receive the highest quality treatment. Her practice is located in Garsfontein, Pretoria on the same premises as The Way Recovery Centre.
With her support and guidance, patients can embark on a journey towards improved well-being and a healthier, happier life.