avitamiini

Avitamiini is a term used in nutrition contexts to denote avitaminosis—the condition of having too little of one or more vitamins in the body. It is not a single disease but a group of disorders caused by vitamin deficiencies, which vary by vitamin and individual.

Causes include insufficient dietary intake, poor absorption in the gut, increased requirements (such as during pregnancy, growth, or illness), chronic diseases that alter metabolism, alcohol misuse, and certain medications that interfere with vitamin utilization or absorption.

Different vitamins deficiency produce characteristic symptoms. Vitamin A deficiency can impair vision and immune function; vitamin D deficiency causes rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults; vitamin B12 or folate deficiency can lead to anemia and neurologic symptoms; vitamin C deficiency causes scurvy; vitamin K deficiency affects blood clotting. Many deficiencies are subtle or nonspecific until advanced.

Diagnosis relies on clinical signs supported by laboratory tests that measure vitamin levels in blood or assess functional markers, such as methylmalonic acid for B12 status or 25-hydroxyvitamin D for vitamin D status. In some cases, dietary assessment helps identify risk.

Treatment aims to correct the deficiency with dietary changes, fortified foods, and appropriate vitamin supplements, while addressing any underlying causes of malabsorption or increased needs. Prevention emphasizes a varied, nutrient-rich diet and public health measures to ensure access to essential vitamins.