Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies can develop for many reasons such as restricted diets, medical conditions, digestive issues or even longterm habits that limit variety. At VK Dietetics, we identify and address nutrient gaps with tailored strategies to improve overall health and wellbeing.
Common Deficiencies We Support
We provide support for a range of common nutrient deficiencies, including but not limited to:
Iron - often linked with fatigue, low mood or frequent illness. Deficiency may result from low dietary intake, poor absorption, blood loss or increased needs during growth, pregnancy or chronic illness.
Vitamin B12 - particularly common in plant based diets or older adults.
Calcium and Vitamin D - essential for bone health and often lacking in dairy free/ or vegan diets.
Zinc and Iodine - important for immune function, skin and thyroid function.
Calcium and Vitamin D - essential for bone health and often lacking in dairyfree/ or vegan diets.
Zinc and Iodine - important for immune function, skin and thyroid health.
Folate - important in pregnancy, cell growth and mood regulation
Protein - especially relevant in cases of unintentional weight loss, malnutrition or fussy eating
Omega-3s - often low in vegetarian/vegan diets and important for brain and heart health.
How VK Dietetics Can Help
Nutritional Assessment and Advice
We conduct a thorough diet history to assess current food intake and eating patterns, alongside relevant medical history and symptoms. Blood test results are also reviewed where available to support the identification of nutrient deficiencies. Our dietitians can identify gaps in nutritional intake and provide practical strategies to address them. This may include tailored dietary advice, suggestions for appropriate blood tests or further investigations and guidance on the best food sources of key nutrients. Our approach is always aligned with individual preferences, cultural needs and lifestyle.
Supplement Guidance (if needed)
We will always prioritise supporting your nutritional needs through food. However, in some cases where dietary intake alone is not enough, supplements may be recommended. When this is necessary, we provide evidence based advice tailored to your individual needs, ensuring any supplementation is safe and appropriate based on your medical history and needs.
Ongoing Monitoring & Education
We provide ongoing support by regularly reviewing dietary intake, monitoring symptoms and where appropriate, recommending further blood tests to monitor nutrient levels. Nutrition plans are adjusted as needed and personalised education is provided to help build understanding of how to support specific nutrient needs.
If low energy, frequent illness or a restrictive diet has raised concerns about your nutritional status or if a doctor or specialist has diagnosed a nutrient deficiency, VK Dietetics can help identify the underlying causes and provide clear and acheivable steps to improve your nutrient intake.
Contact Us Today
We would love to support you in achieving your health and wellbeing goals – contact us today to learn more or to book your first consultation.