When Your Body Talks: Nutrients You're Missing

Cracked Lips and Riboflavin Deficiency

Persistent cracks at the corners of your mouth can be more than just a seasonal annoyance—they may signal a riboflavin (vitamin B2) deficiency. Riboflavin is crucial for energy production and the metabolism of fats, drugs, and steroids. It also supports skin health, and a lack of it can lead to angular cheilitis, characterized by cracked lips. Dairy products, eggs, and green vegetables are excellent sources of riboflavin. By ensuring an adequate intake of this vitamin, you can maintain healthy skin and prevent the discomfort associated with cracked lips.

Bone Pain and Vitamin D Deficiency

Experiencing bone pain or frequent fractures might indicate a vitamin D deficiency. This vitamin is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Without enough vitamin D, bones can become thin, brittle, or misshapen. Sun exposure is a natural way to boost vitamin D levels, but dietary sources like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and egg yolks are also important. Ensuring sufficient vitamin D intake supports not only bone health but also immune function and mood regulation, underscoring its multifaceted role in maintaining overall health.