You May Be Leaving Essential Nutrients Out of Your Diet

A diet high in fat and sugar isn’t healthy, but most people know that already. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize the harm they’re doing to their bodies by not taking in essential nutrients every day, which leads to even worse health outcomes down the road. To avoid these issues and get your body on the right track, check out our guide to the essential nutrients you may be leaving out of your diet. You might just be surprised at how much better you feel when you include these items in your daily routine!

Iron

A surprisingly common diet deficiency is anemia, a condition that can lead to difficulty breathing and low levels of energy. Symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, and heart palpitations. Iron deficiencies are the most common cause of anemia, especially among women. A diet containing animal proteins such as red meat is often the first line in treatment for iron-deficiency anemia as these proteins help make hemoglobin (the iron-containing molecule in red blood cells) more efficient.

Calcium

There are many essential nutrients in a healthy diet and calcium is one that often gets overlooked. Our bodies do not produce calcium, so we must ingest enough calcium in our food or take supplements to maintain strong bones and teeth. A lack of sufficient calcium can lead to osteoporosis, which causes bones to weaken and makes them more likely to break.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

A great way to ensure you are getting the proper amount of Omega-3s is by incorporating seafood into your diet. There are plenty of restaurants that serve food from all over the world and offer fish, such as sushi and ceviche. The average person should eat about 1-2 servings per week.

Magnesium

While magnesium isn't typically in the news for health reasons, it can have a surprising impact on various parts of your body. Magnesium's benefits are so important that this mineral is one that should be included in your diet. Learn more about the different ways magnesium impacts your life here.

Zinc

Many of us go without the essential nutrients we need because they're either not included in our diet or are avoided because they have a strong flavor. This is most likely the case with zinc, a mineral found in meat, beans, eggs, and nuts that is essential for your immune system. Adequate intake will also give you a clearer complexion and better hair growth. You can take supplements as well, but it's best to get them from food sources first.

Vitamin D

1. Found in egg yolks, mushrooms, beef liver, sunflower seeds, and fortified milk, most people need a supplement. 2. Expose skin to the sun for 15-30 minutes each day to make sure that you're getting enough Vitamin D. 3. Avoid too much time in the sun because UV exposure can actually increase your risk of skin cancer; always use SPF protection when going outside for an extended period of time 4.