The typical Western diet often lacks several vital nutrients. Our experts highlight 7 nutrient deficiencies that are surprisingly common and offer tips on how to address them through diet, supplements, IV Drip Therapy and IM Shots.
Iron
Iron is vital for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout your body. There are two types of dietary iron: heme iron, found in animal products like red meat and shellfish, and non-heme iron, found in plant foods like beans and leafy greens.
Iron deficiency is prevalent, affecting over 25% of the global population. It’s especially common in preschool children, menstruating women, and vegetarians. Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, and impaired cognitive function.
- Red meat: 3 oz of ground beef provides nearly 30% of your daily value (DV).
- Organ meats: A slice of liver offers over 50% DV.
- Shellfish: 3 oz of cooked oysters provide roughly 50% DV.
- Beans: Half a cup of cooked kidney beans offers 33% DV.
- Dark leafy greens: 1 oz of kale provides 5.5% DV.
Iodine
Iodine is essential for thyroid function, which regulates your metabolism and supports growth and brain development. Nearly a third of the world’s population suffers from iodine deficiency, leading to symptoms like an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter), weight gain, and developmental issues in children.
- Seaweed: 1 gram of kelp provides up to 1000% DV.
- Fish: 3 oz of baked cod provides 66% DV.
- Dairy: 1 cup of yogurt offers about 50% DV.
- Eggs: One large egg contains 16% DV.
Vitamin D
Did you know that it’s challenging to obtain sufficient vitamin D from food alone? Vitamin D, produced by your skin in response to sunlight, plays a vital role in bone health and immune function. Deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, bone loss, and increased fracture risk.
- Cod liver oil: 1 Tablespoon packs 227% DV.
- Fatty fish: 3 oz of cooked salmon provides 75% DV.
- Egg yolks: One large yolk contains 7% DV.
IM Shot Solution: A Vitamin D IM Shot can significantly improve levels in those with limited sun exposure or dietary intake, ensuring optimal bone and immune health.
Vitamin B12
Crucial for red blood cell formation and neurological function, B12 is found primarily in animal products, so this deficiency is common among vegetarians, vegans and older adults. Symptoms include megaloblastic anemia, impaired brain function and elevated homocysteine levels.
- Shellfish: 3 oz of cooked clams provide 1400% DV.
- Organ meats: 2 oz of liver packs over 1000% DV.
- Meat: 6 oz of beef steak offers 150% DV.
- Dairy: 1 cup of milk contains 18% DV.
IV Drip Solution: B12-rich IV Drips can provide immediate relief from symptoms, particularly for those with absorption issues or dietary restrictions.
Calcium
Calcium is essential for bone health and plays a critical role in muscle function and nerve signaling. Deficiency can lead to osteoporosis and increased fracture risk.
- Boned fish: 1 can of sardines provides 44% DV.
- Dairy products: 1 cup of milk offers 35% DV.
- Dark green vegetables: 1 oz of fresh kale offers 5.6% DV.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A supports vision, skin health and immune function. It is available in two forms: preformed Vitamin A (from animal products) and pro-vitamin A (from plant-based foods). Deficiency, common in developing countries, can cause severe eye damage and increase mortality rates.
- Organ meats: 2 oz of liver provides over 800% DV.
- Fish liver oil: 1 tablespoon packs about 500% DV.
IV Drip Solution: IV Drips fortified with Vitamin A can be particularly beneficial to help prevent eye damage and support overall health.
Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzyme reactions and is essential for bone health. Deficiency is linked to conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Symptoms include fatigue, muscle cramps and abnormal heart rhythms.
- Whole grains: 1 cup of oats contains 74% DV.
- Nuts: 20 almonds pack 17% DV.
- Dark chocolate: 1 oz offers 15% DV.
- Dark green vegetables: 1 oz of raw spinach provides 6% DV.
IV Drip Solution: IV Drips with magnesium can quickly correct deficiencies, improving symptoms like muscle cramps and fatigue, and supporting overall health.
IV Drips & IM Shots Can Help
The best way to prevent these deficiencies is to maintain a balanced diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods. However, for those who struggle to meet their nutritional needs through diet alone, IV Drips and IM Shots can help provide a rapid and effective solution for specific nutrients. IV Drip Therapy provides 100% absorption, while IM Shots provide 70-90% nutrient absorption, compared to 20-30% absorption through oral ingestion. Prioritize your health by ensuring you get enough of these essential nutrients to support overall well-being.
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