by Steven M. Rachlin, M.D.
Multiple studies have shown that most Americans do not obtain the recommended levels of one or more minerals in their diets. Some nutrient deficiencies—specifically those involving potassium, 
calcium, dietary fiber and vitamin D—were noted as “public health concerns,” in the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans released earlier this year. Also, iron intake is listed as a concern for children and women capable of becoming pregnant or that are pregnant. Studies demonstrate that use of vitamin and mineral supplements increases nutrient intake, and reduces rates or nutrient deficiencies and inadequacies.
Inadequate dietary intake of vitamins and minerals can increase the risk of nutritional deficiencies. Deficiencies for many (though not all) can be defined by cut points in biomarkers, in most cases some level of the micronutrient or a related metabolite in the serum or urine.
While less than 10 percent of the overall U.S. population has nutrient deficiencies, the prevalence varies by age, gender and race/ethnicity and is as high as nearly one third in certain population groups. The following examples are from the Centers for Disease Control’s Second National Report on Biochemical Indicators of Diet and Nutrition.
30 million Americans have a vitamin B6 deficiency, with higher rates among non-Hispanic African Americans and those older than age 60 years. Severe vitamin B deficiency is associated with microcytic anemia, depression and confusion and weakened immune function. Those with borderline vitamin B6 levels or mild deficiency might have no signs or symptoms.
23 million Americans (8.1 percent) have “severe” vitamin D deficiency. Few foods contain vitamin D—people produce it via exposure to sunlight. The potential effects of vitamin D deficiency include rickets (children), osteoporosis, muscle weakness, and compromised immune function.
7.5 million women aged 12 to 49 years have low body iron status. Iron deficiency is linked to reduced physical capacity and poor pregnancy outcomes and can progress to anemia if not treated.
Approximately one third of pregnant women in the United States are marginally iodine deficient (i.e., with intakes bordering on insufficient.) Iodine is an essential component of thyroid hormones, which play a key role in normal growth and development and regulate critical enzymes and metabolic processes.
Nutritionists and other healthcare professionals generally advise patients to eat a healthy diet to obtain the required amounts of nutrients and micronutrients. This is a complex challenge to carry out with such issues as inadequate food access, food insecurity and acculturation. Unfortunately, research shows that relying on providing advice to eat healthier foods does not address nutrient deficiencies for many Americans. Vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients, and collective evidence indicates that many Americans are obtaining less than the required amount of a number of vitamins and minerals. As a result, nutritional deficiencies and insufficiencies can have health consequences.
Source: Steven M. Rachlin, M.D., of Rachlin Medical Center, located at 927 Willis Ave., Albertson. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 516-873-7773 or visit RachlinMedical.com.
