Deficiency diseases

Deficiency diseases are a type of health disorder that occurs when the body does not get enough of a specific nutrient. These diseases can have a variety of causes, including poor diet, malabsorption issues, or certain medical conditions.

Causes

Deficiency diseases are primarily caused by a lack of essential nutrients in the diet. These nutrients include vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fats. In some cases, the body may not be able to absorb these nutrients properly due to a medical condition, such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease.

Types of Deficiency Diseases

There are many types of deficiency diseases, each caused by a lack of a specific nutrient. Some of the most common include:

• Scurvy: Caused by a deficiency in vitamin C.
• Rickets: Caused by a deficiency in vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate.
• Pellagra: Caused by a deficiency in niacin or tryptophan.
• Beriberi: Caused by a deficiency in thiamine (vitamin B1).

Symptoms

The symptoms of deficiency diseases can vary widely depending on the nutrient that is lacking. However, common symptoms can include fatigue, dizziness, and weight loss. In severe cases, deficiency diseases can lead to serious health problems such as organ damage or even death.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention of deficiency diseases primarily involves maintaining a balanced diet that includes all essential nutrients. In cases where a deficiency disease has already developed, treatment typically involves dietary changes and supplementation of the deficient nutrient.

See Also

• Malnutrition
• Vitamin deficiency
• Mineral deficiency