Q: Which doctor should I consult for mineral deficiency issues?
A: You should first consult a General Practitioner (GP) who would recommend you to a dietitian if required.
Q: What should I eat to avoid mineral deficiency?
A: Go for a balanced diet, with high protein, low-carbohydrate and fats, and lots of green leafy vegetables.
Q: Could some predisposing health conditions cause mineral deficiency?
A: Some conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, gastrointestinal problems (especially diarrhea), anemia, and pregnancy can bring about mineral deficiency.
Q: Is there any special aspect of mineral nutrition that I should be aware of?
A: Please note that the level of mineral nutrients in the body is tightly regulated within specific limits. Besides deficiency, you should also be alert about excesses of mineral nutrients in the diet, as too much can cause toxicity and other complications. For example, sodium, which has a propensity to be consumed in excess, can cause hypernatremia, which can lead to high blood pressure (hypertension).
