Nutrient Deficiencies:
Restoring Optimal Levels for Health
Nutrient deficiencies occur when the body doesn’t get enough of one or more essential vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients needed for optimal health. These deficiencies can contribute to a wide range of health problems, from fatigue and weakened immunity to more serious chronic diseases. At Salt Lake Functional Medicine, Dr. Tiffani Fries offers a functional medicine approach to identify and address nutrient deficiencies, restoring optimal levels and supporting your overall well-being.
Understanding Nutrient Deficiencies
Nutrient deficiencies can arise from various factors, including:
Poor diet:
A diet lacking in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other nutrient-rich foods.
Malabsorption issues:
Conditions that affect the body's ability to absorb nutrients from food, such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or other digestive disorders.
Certain medications:
Some medications can interfere with nutrient absorption or increase nutrient excretion.
Increased nutrient needs:
Certain life stages, such as pregnancy or breastfeeding, or conditions like chronic illness, can increase the body's need for specific nutrients.
Chronic stress:
Prolonged stress can deplete nutrient stores.
Common Nutrient Deficiencies and Associated Symptoms:
Iron:
Fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, headaches.
Vitamin B12:
Fatigue, weakness, tingling or numbness in hands and feet, memory problems, depression.
Vitamin D:
Fatigue, bone pain, muscle weakness, mood changes, weakened immunity.
Magnesium:
Muscle cramps, fatigue, headaches, anxiety, insomnia, irregular heartbeat.
Calcium:
Weak bones, muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat.
Zinc:
Impaired immune function, skin problems, hair loss, delayed wound healing.
Folate:
Fatigue, weakness, mouth sores, irritability.
The Salt Lake Functional Medicine Approach to Nutrient Deficiencies
Dr. Fries, DC takes a comprehensive approach to identify and address nutrient deficiencies. This may involve:
Detailed Assessment:
A thorough evaluation of your health history, symptoms, diet, and lifestyle.
Advanced Testing:
This may include blood tests to assess levels of various vitamins and minerals, as well as specialized tests to evaluate nutrient absorption and utilization.
Personalized Support Plans:
Based on your individual needs and test results, Dr. Fries, DC will develop a tailored plan that may include:
Dietary Modifications:
Implementing a nutrient-dense, whole-foods diet tailored to your specific needs, with an emphasis on foods rich in the nutrients you're lacking.
Targeted Supplementation:
Using high-quality supplements to correct deficiencies and restore optimal nutrient levels. The form and dosage of supplements will be carefully chosen based on your individual needs and test results.
Addressing Underlying Causes:
If malabsorption issues or other health conditions are contributing to your nutrient deficiencies, Dr. Fries, DC will work with you to address these issues.
Restoring Optimal Nutrient Status
At Salt Lake Functional Medicine, we’re committed to helping you restore optimal nutrient levels and achieve vibrant health. By addressing the root causes of your deficiencies and providing your body with the nutrients it needs, we believe you can experience significant improvements in your energy levels, immune function, and overall well-being.
