For those who pay attention to their eating habits, controlling their calorie intake becomes second nature as they try to master their weight management skills. Managing your calorie intake is one of the most important aspects of a healthy diet, but the importance of getting enough nutrients should not be underestimated. After all, our nutrient intake has a huge impact on our body's overall health. Nutrient deficiencies are more common than we think.

7 signs of undernourishment
1. Unexplained weight loss
Even if you don't exercise, sustained weight loss is one of the most obvious signs that you're not getting enough nutrients. The body relies on both macronutrients and micronutrients for repair and recovery. Without them, the body begins to break down reserves (catabolism) for emergency fuel. 

2. Fatigue
Frequent fatigue and weakness are often a sign of iron deficiency in your body, leading to a condition called anemia, which can be fatal. Magnesium deficiency can make you feel tired and often trigger migraines.

3. Weak and soft bones
Brittle bones can be a sign of vitamin D or calcium deficiency. This is because these nutrients are responsible for increasing bone density. Magnesium has a synergistic relationship with calcium, so you need to get enough of the former to optimize the absorption of the latter.

 4. Slow wound healing
If your wounds take longer to heal than usual, it could be a sign of zinc deficiency. Usually, most skin ulcers take no more than two to three weeks to heal, but deeper and more severe cases may require a longer healing process.

5. Night blindness
Experiencing night blindness can be a sign of vitamin A deficiency, as one of its functions is to target eye health. Other symptoms include dry eyes, throat, and chest infections. 

6. Cognitive decline
Nutrient deficiencies affect brain function, making it difficult to concentrate and remember. For example, iron or vitamin B12 deficiency can cause slow reaction times or memory impairment.

7. Growth and development issues
Iodine deficiency can cause thyroid problems that can lead to several medical conditions, including goiter (an abnormally enlarged thyroid gland). Other symptoms include hair loss, heart rhythm changes, and heavy or irregular periods in women.