Deficiency Diseases

Key Notes:

Definition of Deficiency Diseases:

• Deficiency diseases are caused by a lack of essential nutrients in the body. These nutrients include vitamins, minerals, proteins, and carbohydrates.

Common Types of Deficiency Diseases:

• Vitamin Deficiency Diseases:

• Vitamin A: Causes night blindness (difficulty seeing in low light).
• Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Causes beriberi (weakness, nerve damage).
• Vitamin C: Causes scurvy (gum disease, weakness, anemia).
• Vitamin D: Causes rickets (weak or soft bones in children).
• Vitamin K: Leads to excessive bleeding as it affects blood clotting.
• Mineral Deficiency Diseases:
  • Iron: Causes anemia (fatigue, weakness due to lack of red blood cells).
  • Calcium: Leads to weak bones and teeth, increasing the risk of fractures.
  • Iodine: Causes goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland) and developmental issues.

Causes of Deficiency Diseases:

• Poor diet lacking essential nutrients.
• Unbalanced meals or malnutrition.
• Inadequate absorption of nutrients by the body.

Symptoms of Deficiency Diseases:

• Tiredness and weakness.
• Poor growth and development in children.
• Weakened immune system, leading to frequent infections.
• Specific symptoms depending on the missing nutrient (e.g., vision problems, bone pain, skin issues).

Prevention of Deficiency Diseases:

• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains.
• Including nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, dairy, nuts, and fish in daily meals.
• Taking vitamin and mineral supplements if necessary.

Treatment of Deficiency Diseases:

• Restoring the deficient nutrient through diet or supplements.
• Medical treatment for severe cases to address the symptoms and complications.

Importance of a Balanced Diet:

• Ensuring a variety of food groups helps provide the body with all necessary nutrients.
• Encourages overall health, strong bones, healthy immune function, and proper growth in children.