Deficiency disorders occur when the body does not get enough essential nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins or minerals. These nutrients are required for growth, energy, immunity and proper organ function. Deficiencies may result from poor diet, diseases, worm infestation, poor absorption or increased loss of nutrients.
The most common deficiency disorders are explained below along with simple prevention and treatment methods.
1. Anemia
Anemia is most commonly caused by iron deficiency. Hemoglobin in red blood cells contains iron; when levels drop, oxygen transport reduces.
Symptoms
- Pale skin and mucous membranes
- Fatigue and weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Poor appetite
- Digestive discomfort
Anemia may also result from folic acid deficiency or vitamin B12 deficiency, or from loss of blood due to worms or malaria.
Prevention & Treatment
- Iron supplements or iron-rich foods (liver, green leafy vegetables, legumes, fruits)
- Treat worm infections or malaria if present
- Folic acid and B12 supplementation when required
2. Endemic Goitre (Iodine Deficiency)
Goitre is the enlargement of the thyroid gland due to iodine deficiency. In severe childhood deficiency, it can lead to cretinism — slow physical and mental growth.
Prevention & Treatment
- Use iodized salt
- Eat iodine-rich foods like fish, shellfish and seaweed
- Avoid excessive iodine intake (can cause hyperthyroidism)
3. Kwashiorkor
A severe protein deficiency disorder, common in children. The child becomes weak, irritable and develops fluid accumulation.
Symptoms
- Loss of skin and hair pigment (“red boy” appearance)
- Swollen abdomen (edema)
- Apathy and irritability
Prevention & Treatment
- Protein-rich diet: eggs, fish, meat, beans, groundnuts
- Introduce protein gradually to avoid digestion issues
- Avoid exclusive use of milk powder in regions with lactose intolerance
4. Marasmus
Caused by severe calorie deficiency. The body breaks down fat and muscle to survive.
Symptoms
- Extreme thinness
- Loss of subcutaneous fat
- Muscle wasting
- Growth retardation
Prevention & Treatment
- High-calorie diet introduced slowly
- Balanced intake of carbohydrates, fats and proteins
- Treat dehydration or infections if present
5. Vitamin A Deficiency
Vitamin A deficiency causes xerophthalmia (dry eyes), which may progress to blindness. It also weakens immunity and increases the risk of infections.
Symptoms
- Night blindness
- Dry eyes and corneal damage
- Skin abnormalities
Prevention & Treatment
- Foods like eggs, liver, carrots, green vegetables, fruits
- Dairy products
- Vitamin A supplements in high-risk children
6. Other Vitamin Deficiencies
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Deficiency causes beriberi—seen in populations consuming polished rice.
- Symptoms: neuritis, weakness, tiredness
- Source: whole grains, yeast
Vitamin B2, B3, B6, B12
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
- Found in milk, fresh vegetables
- Deficiency: tongue soreness
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
- Deficiency causes pellagra (3 D’s: dermatitis, diarrhoea, dementia)
- Seen in maize-based diets
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
- Deficiency caused by drugs like INH
- Leads to brain disorders and seizures
Vitamin B12
- Severe deficiency in pregnancy causes birth defects like spina bifida
- Sources: meat, eggs, dairy
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Deficiency causes scurvy — bleeding gums, weak immunity, loose teeth.
- Sources: citrus fruits, tomatoes, green veggies
Vitamin D
- Sources: sunlight, dairy, fish oils
- Essential for calcium absorption
- Deficiency causes rickets and bone weakness
Vitamin E
- Powerful antioxidant
- Deficiency causes neurological problems
- Sources: nuts, seeds, vegetable oils
Vitamin K
- Required for blood clotting (prothrombin production)
- Deficiency causes bleeding disorders
- Sources: green leafy vegetables
7. Mineral Deficiencies
Calcium
- Prevents rickets, osteoporosis and fractures
- Sources: milk, ragi, leafy vegetables
Fluorine
- Prevents dental caries
- Sources: fluoridated water, toothpaste
- Excess intake → bone damage
Sodium & Potassium
- Maintain nerve conduction and fluid balance
- Low sodium (hyponatremia) → confusion, weakness
- Low potassium (hypokalemia) → heart problems
- Sources: fruits, vegetables, salt (sodium), bananas (potassium)
Other Minerals
- Copper, magnesium, manganese, cobalt and zinc required in small amounts
- Both deficiency and excess may cause health problems
8. Cholesterol Imbalance
Cholesterol is a lipid needed for cell membranes. High levels lead to atherosclerosis, narrowing of arteries and hypertension.
Types of Lipoproteins
- Chylomicrons
- VLDL — rich in triglycerides
- LDL — “bad cholesterol”
- HDL — “good cholesterol”
Management
- Reduce saturated fat intake
- Increase physical activity
- Use cholesterol-lowering drugs (e.g., statins) when prescribed
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