Personality Changes
As strange as it sounds, your personality could be a good indication of a vitamin deficiency. In one study, researchers had two groups of subjects complete surveys about their feelings and experiences with different vitamins. One group was given the survey along with supplements for deficiencies indicated in the survey; the other group was only given the survey. The study found that those who took the supplements experienced changes in mood and behavior over the following weeks.
Vitamin deficiencies can cause personality changes that are often overlooked as symptoms of other conditions. For example, people deficient in vitamin C have been known to have mood swings, irritability, and crying spells. Vitamin B2 deficiency has been linked to feelings of worthlessness or guilt; a low B2 level has even been shown to cause depression in some people. Vitamin B6 deficiency is associated with confusion, forgetfulness, and anxiety. People lacking Vitamin B3 may get nervous easily, feel like they can’t concentrate, and suffer headaches.
