Warning Signs of Vitamin Deficiencies You Can Spot in the Mirror

27. Bleeding Under Your Fingernails: Vitamin K Deficiency

A lesser-known but distinct sign of a vitamin deficiency is the presence of small, dark red or purple streaks under your fingernails, called splinter hemorrhages. These can be a sign of a severe Vitamin K deficiency. Vitamin K is absolutely essential for blood clotting and without it, even minor pressure on the capillaries under your nails can cause them to break and bleed. This is a subtle but serious sign that your body's clotting mechanisms are compromised. Foods rich in Vitamin K include green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, and Swiss chard, which should be consumed regularly to maintain proper blood health.

28. Persistent Itchiness: Magnesium and Calcium Imbalance

If you're experiencing an inexplicable, persistent itchiness without any visible rash or skin condition, it might be tied to a mineral imbalance. While not a direct deficiency in a single vitamin, it's often linked to an imbalance of magnesium and calcium. These minerals work in tandem to regulate nerve function, and when they're out of balance, your nerves can become hypersensitive, leading to a constant itching sensation. This can be especially common in individuals who consume a lot of dairy but not enough magnesium-rich foods. Address this by adding dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and legumes to your diet.