Understanding Medicine with Chula Pharmacy: Be Aware of Vitamin Deficiency

Our Health Is Very Important

Every success in life—whether in education, work, or overall quality of life—relies on the readiness of both body and mind. Even when our mental state is struggling, as long as the body is still strong, there is always hope to rise and start again. We all know that basic physical strength comes from eating well, sleeping well, and exercising regularly. However, limited resources such as time and money often lead us to prioritize quick, filling, and cheap meals, often neglecting nutritional value or food quality. Over time, consuming poor-quality food can affect our health and lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals. According to global and Thai public health research, certain groups of people are lacking in specific vitamins and minerals. The most common deficiencies are:

1. Vitamin D Deficiency

Surprisingly, vitamin D deficiency is the most common among Thai people, despite Thailand having strong sunlight all year round. This is mainly due to sun avoidance, urban lifestyles with tall buildings blocking sunlight, and the tendency to stay indoors during sunny hours. Many people never expose their skin to sunlight, often wearing long sleeves and applying sunscreen. In the elderly, the body’s ability to synthesize vitamin D decreases, and certain medical conditions can interfere with fat absorption. Vitamin D is essential for calcium and phosphorus absorption, bone and dental health, immune function, muscle activity, and overall wellness.

2. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

This is common in people who restrict animal products, such as vegetarians or vegans, as B12 is mostly found in animal-based foods. It is also common among the elderly due to reduced absorption efficiency, and in individuals with certain stomach or intestinal conditions or those who use antacids long-term. Vitamin B12 is necessary for red blood cell production and the proper functioning of the nervous system and brain.

3. Folate (Vitamin B9) Deficiency

Common in those who consume insufficient leafy green vegetables. Folate is essential for cell division, especially in the production of red blood cells, and plays a vital role in fetal development during pregnancy.

4. Vitamin C Deficiency

Seen in people who consume very few fresh fruits and vegetables. Vitamin C helps produce collagen, boosts the immune system, enhances iron absorption, and acts as an antioxidant.

5. Vitamin B1 Deficiency

Although less common in developed countries, it remains a problem in certain groups, especially those who rely heavily on polished white rice without other nutritional supplementation, and in chronic alcoholics. Vitamin B1 is essential for carbohydrate metabolism, energy production, and proper nervous system function.

Symptoms That May Indicate Vitamin Deficiency

These symptoms are often vague and nonspecific, and may overlap with other conditions. This makes them difficult to detect in the early stages. However, if the following symptoms occur frequently or become chronic, they may be signs that your body is not getting enough nutrients:

• Fatigue, tiredness, lack of energy – Very common. Often caused by deficiencies in several vitamins, especially vitamin D, C, and B-complex, or iron-deficiency anemia.
• Problems with skin, hair, and nails – Such as dry, flaky skin, hair loss, brittle nails, cracked corners of the mouth, mouth ulcers, inflamed or smooth tongue, swollen or bleeding gums—these can indicate deficiencies in vitamins A, E, C, and B-complex (e.g., biotin, B12).
• Poor night vision or difficulty seeing in low light – An early sign of vitamin A deficiency.
• Muscle and bone aches or weakness – Especially in the back or legs, can be early signs of vitamin D deficiency. Frequent cramps or tingling/numbness in the hands and feet may relate to deficiencies in vitamins D, B1, B6, or B12.
• Mood and concentration issues – Irritability, mood swings, anxiety, or mild depression can be associated with deficiencies in B3, B6, B12, folate, or vitamin D.

These symptoms are only preliminary signs and are not exclusive to vitamin deficiency—they may result from other causes. However, vitamin deficiency often leads to gradual, long-term health problems and doesn't show effects immediately. If you experience these symptoms frequently and are unsure of the cause, consult a doctor or pharmacist for a proper diagnosis and advice. They can help guide you on improving your nutrition or recommend suitable vitamin supplements to support long-term health and well-being.