Nutrient Deficiencies: Causes, Symptoms & Examples

A disease that occurs when a nutrient is missing or deficient in the diet is called a deficiency disease. Deficiency diseases are caused by a lack of essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, or amino acids, in the diet. These nutrients are necessary for the body to function properly, and a deficiency can lead to a variety of health problems.

Some examples of deficiency diseases include:

* Scurvy, caused by a deficiency of vitamin C

* Rickets, caused by a deficiency of vitamin D

* Pellagra, caused by a deficiency of niacin

* Beriberi, caused by a deficiency of thiamin

* Iron-deficiency anemia, caused by a deficiency of iron

Deficiency diseases can be prevented by eating a healthy diet that includes a variety of foods from all food groups. It is also important to take a multivitamin supplement if you are concerned about getting enough nutrients from your diet.