Nowadays, the variety of health products is extensive, with popular supplements including B vitamins, lutein, and more. However, according to Chien Tzu Yun, a functional medicine nutritionist from Taiwan, these are not the nutrients typically lacking in the human body. On the Epoch Times’ “Health 1+1” program, she summarized her clinical observations during blood tests, highlighting the top five nutrients commonly deficient in people and providing guidance on how to supplement them effectively.
Ms. Chien believes that, in addition to genetics and individual constitution, environmental factors play a significant role in the modern prevalence of nutrient deficiencies. Contemporary individuals live in more polluted environments, leading to increased demands on the body for nutrients. Additionally, modern agricultural practices prioritize speedy crop cultivation, resulting in shorter fallow periods and diminished soil nutrients. Consequently, the nutritional content of crops has decreased over time, providing the human body with fewer essential trace elements than before.
A blood test is the quickest way to determine whether the body lacks certain nutrients. Ms. Chien noted that a decline in your immune system, characterized by frequent colds or headaches or an increase in minor ailments, could indicate a nutritional deficiency. In such cases, getting a blood test is advisable. Typically, these tests reveal not just a deficiency in one nutrient but a lack of multiple.
1. Vitamin D3
Ms. Chien stated that vitamin D3 is often the most deficient nutrient in the human body. A lack of vitamin D3 typically does not manifest obvious symptoms, and the body may not exhibit a noticeable response even after supplementation. Nevertheless, numerous studies have indicated significantly lower levels of vitamin D3 in the bodies of individuals with immune disorders compared to the general population.2. Zinc
What are the symptoms of zinc deficiency? Ms. Chien mentioned that, apart from being more susceptible to colds, signs of zinc deficiency may include softer or more easily breakable nails, increased hair loss, and gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea.
Zinc can be obtained through seafood and nuts, but for most people, shellfish consumption does not happen even once a week, and their intake of nuts is also inadequate. Additionally, modern diets often include excessive processed foods low in vitamins and minerals, further contributing to zinc deficiency. Moreover, overindulgence in processed foods can trigger gastrointestinal inflammation and hinder nutrient absorption. In such cases, it is crucial to supplement with zinc to facilitate the repair of the gastrointestinal mucosa.
3. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is another commonly deficient nutrient observed in clinical settings, with symptoms including susceptibility to colds, inflamed and bleeding gums, frequent mouth sores, fatigue, and a lack of appetite. Typically, the deficiency arises from insufficient consumption of fruits.4. Omega-3
The primary source of omega-3 is fish, leaving individuals who do not enjoy fish or who follow a vegetarian diet prone to omega-3 deficiency. This deficiency can result in inflammation and acne, as Ms. Chien highlighted. She recommends incorporating fish rich in omega-3 into the diet at least three to four times a week to prevent such nutritional deficits.5. Vitamin A
Ms. Chien noted that dry and uncomfortable eyes might indicate a vitamin A deficiency rather than low levels of lutein. Regarding supplementing with vitamin A, a daily dosage of 5,000 international units (IU) is considered safe.Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, so the timing of supplementation is inconsequential—whether taken with a meal or after. However, Ms. Chien advises those with digestive issues to consider supplementing with meals—that is, taking vitamin A supplements midway through a meal.
Ms. Chien further explained that functional medicine involves identifying the root causes of bodily issues through testing nutrient levels, exposure to environmental toxins, and more. For instance, it aids patients with immune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or eczema, in pinpointing the origins of their conditions. It also offers guidance to cancer patients on nutritional supplementation to navigate the challenges of chemotherapy. Additionally, it assists individuals in the sub-healthy category in understanding their nutrient deficiencies, helping them overcome issues like headaches and insomnia.
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