The human body is an amazing machine, made up of individual parts that work together in a coordinated way. Even though we believe taking medications is helpful when we feel sick, the truth is our bodies do most of the work fighting infections and viruses. The only thing you need to do is pay attention to the signs your body gives you when something is wrong. Here are some of the signs you should be aware of and their meaning.
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Craving sour food
Our bodies usually crave certain foods because of hormonal changes such as during pregnancy. However, this can also be a sign of issues with the liver and gall bladder. In case you start craving sour foods and you are not pregnant it is wise to visit your doctor and ask for advice.
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Oral bleeding
The usual cause for bleeding from the gums is improper or no dental hygiene at all. Flossing once a year will probably cause your gums to bleed a bit. However, if it happens too often it can be a sign that your body lacks vitamin C. Instead of taking supplements try getting more vitamin C from natural sources such as fruits and vegetables.
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Sleeplessness and cramping
We have all experienced cramps and insomnia at certain points in our lives, but if they occur too often they could be a sign of magnesium deficiency. Magnesium is essential for the brain, muscle and heart function and health. If you experience insomnia and cramps ask your doctor for an advice and try to eat more nuts, leafy greens, bananas and other fruits.
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Craving seafood
As we explained above, craving certain foods usually happens because of hormonal changes. Craving seafood, on the other hand, could be a sign of important nutrient and mineral deficiency.
If you are vegan and vegetarian and you crave meat, start your food journal in order to track the macronutrients you intake. This way you will be more aware if your diet is imbalanced.
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Craving sugar
Eating too much sugar or junk food usually cause sugar craving. Sugar is addictive and the junk foods don’t contain any nutrients. You can combat this craving if you eat a big salad and giving your body what it actually needs. It may be hard at first but as time goes by your body will adapt and will no longer need that much sugar.
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Craving sodium
Having occasional salt cravings is perfectly normal because sodium is a mineral that the body needs to function properly. However, regular salt cravings could be a sign of an inflammation or an infection in the body. So, instead of using your usual salt try a healthier alternative such as Himalayan Pink Salt.
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Brittle hair and nails
Having brittle hair and nails is the body’s way of telling you that it lacks important nutrients and vitamins. Particularly vitamin B and calcium deficiency cause cracked and dry nails. To get more of these nutrients eat whole grain bread, legumes, almond milk and leafy greens.
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Persisting dry skin patches
Vitamin E is very important for the skin and if the body is deficient the skin shows the first signs. The signs of vitamin E deficiency are itchy, scaly, dry and cracked skin. Eating fish oil, nuts and other healthy oils will provide your body with enough vitamin E in order for the skin to be healthy.