In this post, we will review the groups at most risk of nutrient deficiencies. Among them are:
- Pregnant and lactating women-Pregnant women have increased needs for various nutrients including Vitamin A, Iron etc due to foetal development. They need to meet their needs and those of their developing foetuses. Lactating women also have increased nutrient needs since the nutrients in breast milk are heavily dependent on their diets .Moreover, a lactating woman requires enough nutrients to meet her nutrient requirements as well as those of her child. Not meeting these increased needs places them at risk of deficiencies.
- Infants -They are mainly at risk of Vitamin K deficiency as they lack the bacteria required for Vitamin K production.
- Persons with certain conditions e.g absorption disorders are at increased risk of deficiencies of fat soluble vitamins e.g Vitamin A, D E and K.
- Individuals with poor dietary intake-Those who severely restrict their diets are at predisposed risk of nutrient deficits.This also includes malnourished persons who may lack adequate intake of various nutrients.
- The elderly – As we grow older , our capacity to absorb nutrients decreases, enhancing the possibility of nutrient deficiencies. Also , it is likely for elderly persons to consume poor diets that may have insufficient amounts of nutrients further increasing the risk for deficiencies.
- Vegans-They are especially at risk of nutrients particularly contained in animal source foods e.g. Vitamin B 12 or those that are more bio-available in animal food sources than in plant sources e.g haem iron.
- Individuals with chronic alcoholism-These persons are likely to consume poor quality diets, lacking adequate nutrients. Furthermore, some of them may prioritize alcohol intake over food intake further limiting their nutrient intake.
Being aware of the most at risk group for deficiencies allows us to identify ways to better manage our nutrient intake for a better nutrient status.You are able to recognize whether you’ll need to address your dietary intake during certain periods and conditions,to achieve optimal nutrient intake.