Irritable bowel syndrome is a widespread condition that is characterized by pain and gastrointestinal discomfort with varying degrees of diarrhea and constipation. There can be a number of underlying causes, but diet plays a major role. Also, there is evidence that being deficient in B-vitamins, vitamin D, magnesium, calcium, iron, and zinc may be a contributing factor. In addition, strict dieting as part of the disease management may result in nutrient deficiencies, according to a review article that is published in Gastroenterology and Hepatology.

Selenium is important for our immune defense, thyroid gland, fertility, protection of cells, and other essential body functions that international science is very focused on. The recommended selenium intake for men and women has been increased by 50 percent. At the same time, the selenium content in the agricultural soil in the Nordic countries is rather low, which makes it challenging to get enough selenium from things like wholegrain, meat, dairy products, and eggs.

Iron deficiency typically results in anemia. Anemic children and teenagers don’t necessarily have distinct symptoms but are often pale and tired. Children with iron deficiency are also at increased risk of stunted growth, which makes this mineral extremely important for the developing child. Iron from animal food sources have the best absorption in the body, which means that a strictly plant-based diet may result in an iron deficiency. The same is the case if you consume too many dairy products, according to an article published in the science journal, JAMA Pediatrics. Here, the authors write that it is crucial for children to get enough iron, and they explain how to avoid a deficiency.

Most cells in the human body need vitamin D. The nutrient also has an important role in preventing symptoms and diseases that may occur after menopause – including osteoporosis, muscle weakness, dry mucosa, mood swings, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. In an article that is published in Frontiers in Physiology, the authors address the widespread vitamin D deficiency that is an overlooked problem in post-menopausal women, and they suggest striving to have optimal vitamin D levels in the blood throughout life.

The trace element chromium improves the effect of insulin, the hormone that helps glucose enter our cells. Chromium is needed for normal sugar metabolism that is closely linked to normal lipid metabolism and weight control. According to a new study of rodents, a chromium-deficient diet that is rich in carbohydrate and fat, increases hunger and energy intake. Also, levels of insulin and lipids in the blood increase, and there is weight gain and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The new study supports earlier studies of humans where it was seen that chromium is important for both blood sugar levels and weight control. When using chromium supplements, make sure to choose a product with chromium yeast that has good absorption. Also make sure to get plenty of protein that contributes to blood sugar management and fat burning, which makes it easier to lose weight.

Brain cancer is associated with physical and cognitive disruptions, and many patients die within a few years. Compared with other cancers, the development of brain cancer is more complex and there has been focus on underlying causes such as head traumas, allergies, and electromagnetic radiation from cell phones, transmission towers, etc. Scientists have also looked at vitamins and brain health, whereas minerals have been ignored. Now, a team of Chinese scientists have conducted a large population study and found that higher intake of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper is linked to a reduced risk of different types of brain cancer (gliomas). Apparently, selenium also has a protective effect.

- in people aged 60 and older

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, and our diet and lifestyle play a major role. According to an Australian study published in British Medical Journal, high-dosed vitamin D supplementation taken for several years lowers the risk of heart attacks or interventions such as angioplasty and by-pass surgery in people aged 60 years and older.

Zinc is involved in numerous physiological functions, some of which are important for pregnancy and fetal development. However, zinc deficiencies are common, especially in developing countries. Vegans are also at increased risk because it is difficult for the body to absorb zinc from a plant-based diet. Zinc deficiency in connection with pregnancy appears to increase the expecting mother’s risk of developing hypertension, and the elevated blood pressure may result in low birth weight and a low Apgar score, which is a health assessment of the baby in the minutes right after delivery. This was shown in a study that is published in Frontiers in Nutrition.