Jun 13, 2023
Your metabolic dysfunction could just be a result of any of these 7 common nutrient deficiencies.
#1 B Vitamins
B vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7(biotin), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin), play critical roles in energy metabolism. They are involved in the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, helping convert them into usable energy. Deficiencies in B vitamins can impair these metabolic pathways, leading to reduced energy production.
#2 Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in numerous metabolic reactions, including energy production, protein synthesis, and glucose metabolism. It helps regulate the activity of enzymes during glycolysis, the initial step of carbohydrate metabolism. Additionally, magnesium is necessary for the proper function of insulin, a hormone that regulates glucose uptake by cells. A deficiency in magnesium can impair these processes, potentially leading to decreased metabolic efficiency.
#3 Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), have been found to influence metabolism and energy expenditure. Deficiencies in these essential fatty acids may affect metabolic processes, potentially leading to imbalances in lipidmetabolism and energy utilization.
#4 Vitamin D
While primarily known for its role in bone health, vitamin D also plays a role in metabolism because it helps regulate insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for the metabolism of carbohydrates and glucose utilization. Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with impaired insulin function and metabolic disorders.
#5 Iodine
Iodine is a key component required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, primarily T4 and T3 (hormones critical for regulating metabolism throughout your body). The thyroid gland takes up iodine from the bloodstream and incorporates it into thyroid hormone molecules. Without sufficient iodine, the thyroid gland cannot produce an adequate amount of thyroid hormones, leading to a decrease in metabolic rate. Inadequate iodine intake can result in an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), leading to a sluggish metabolism, weight gain, and fatigue.
#6 Iron
Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency, known as anemia, can lead to reduced oxygen transport, affecting the metabolic processes involved in energy production and overall metabolism.
#7 Zinc
Zinc works together as a co-part for numerous enzymes involved in metabolism. These enzymes facilitate the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, helping convert them into usable energy. For example, zinc is required for the activity of enzymes involved in the metabolism of glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids.
Don't know if you're deficient?
Start a conversation with me in my DM's. Between some biofeedback questions and a look into a typical Full Day of Eating, I might be able to give some insight into if deficiency is what's causing low energy levels, slow metabolism, etc. or of course, blood work doesn't hurt.