12 Unexpected Causes of Vitamin Deficiencies You Might Be Missing

2. The Impact of Modern Diets on Vitamin Intake

Modern diets have evolved significantly, with convenience and taste often prioritized over nutritional content. The rise of processed foods, which are often stripped of essential nutrients, has contributed to hidden vitamin deficiencies. For instance, refining grains removes the bran and germ, which are rich in B vitamins and minerals, leaving behind a product with significantly reduced nutritional value. Similarly, the high sugar and fat content in many processed foods can displace more nutrient-dense options, leading to imbalanced diets. Furthermore, dietary trends such as veganism or ketogenic diets, while potentially healthy, require careful planning to ensure adequate intake of all essential nutrients. Vegans, for example, must pay attention to vitamin B12, typically found in animal products, while those on a ketogenic diet may need to monitor their intake of certain vitamins and minerals that are abundant in carbohydrate-rich foods. Understanding the nutritional implications of these dietary choices is essential for preventing deficiencies and maintaining overall health.