The 7 Most Common Nutrient Deficiencies in the U.S. (and How to Fix Them Naturally)

When people think about health, they often focus on diet, exercise, or prescriptions. But one of the most overlooked factors behind fatigue, brain fog, weak immunity, and chronic illness is nutrient deficiency. Even in the U.S. a country with food everywhere millions of people aren’t getting the nutrients their bodies need to thrive.

Research shows that seven nutrients are consistently low across the population. These deficiencies don’t just create symptoms in the short term. Left unaddressed, they contribute to long-term risks like osteoporosis, heart disease, poor immunity, hormone imbalances, and cognitive decline. Let’s break down the seven most common deficiencies and what they mean for you.

1. Potassium – 97.6% Don’t Get Enough

Potassium is crucial for regulating blood pressure, nerve signals, and muscle function. Almost everyone in the U.S. falls short, mainly due to processed foods replacing whole produce. Low potassium intake increases risks for hypertension, kidney stones, and muscle cramps.

Root-cause solution: Focus on potassium-rich whole foods like avocado, spinach, salmon, and coconut water.

2. Vitamin E – 93.9% Deficient

Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting your cells from oxidative stress. Deficiency is linked to weakened immunity, poor skin health, and faster aging.

Root-cause solution: Incorporate nuts, seeds, and cold-pressed oils. A high-quality supplement may also be needed.

3. Vitamin K – 71.1% Deficient

Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone strength. Without it, the risk of fractures and vascular calcification goes up dramatically.

Root-cause solution: Dark leafy greens and grass-fed butter are excellent sources.

4. Magnesium – 60.9% Deficient

Called “the relaxation mineral,” magnesium supports over 300 biochemical processes, including energy production, sleep, and muscle repair. Deficiency is tied to anxiety, poor sleep, high blood pressure, and headaches.

Root-cause solution: Magnesium-rich foods include almonds, pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate. For many people, supplementation is life-changing.

5. Vitamin A – 51% Deficient

Vitamin A is critical for vision, skin health, and immunity. Deficiency can cause dry eyes, poor wound healing, and frequent infections.

Root-cause solution: Eat more grass-fed liver, wild-caught fish, and brightly colored vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes.

6. Calcium – 49.4% Deficient

Calcium is essential for strong bones, teeth, and proper nerve signaling. Nearly half of Americans don’t get enough, leading to osteoporosis, brittle nails, and even heart irregularities.

Root-cause solution: Raw dairy, sardines, and leafy greens can help restore balance.

7. Vitamin C – 42.9% Deficient

Known as the “immune vitamin,” Vitamin C supports collagen production, tissue repair, and healthy adrenal function. Deficiency may look like slow wound healing, fatigue, or frequent colds.

Root-cause solution: Choose fresh citrus, bell peppers, and camu camu powder for higher levels than typical supplements.

The Bigger Picture

These nutrient gaps aren’t just random. They’re the result of modern diets high in processed food, poor soil quality, and chronic stress that depletes reserves. This is why simply “eating better” isn’t enough for most people. Functional testing helps uncover where you’re deficient, and a personalized plan ensures you restore balance instead of guessing.

If you’ve been struggling with fatigue, mood swings, poor sleep, or stubborn health issues, nutrient deficiencies could be playing a bigger role than you think. At Executive Functional Healing, I help clients uncover and correct these root causes so they can feel energized, focused, and resilient again.

 Book your free 15-minute consultation today at ExecutiveFunctionalHealing.com.