International Review of Medical Practice, 2020, XXVI/4: 150-154

SUMMARY IN POLISH & ENGLISH. FULL ARTICLE ONLY IN POLISH.

Laboratory tests as an effective tool for assessing nutritional deficiency

Wolszczak-Biedrzycka B1, Bieńkowska-Iwanik A1, Biedrzycki G2, Kloc W1.

1Department of Public Health, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland; 2Hospital Pharmacy, Voievodish Specialist Hospital in Olsztyn, Poland

International Review of Medical Practice, 2020; Vol. 26, No. 4, 150

Providing the necessary minerals and vitamins brings undoubted benefits for the proper functioning of the whole body. Dietary deficiencies can lead to many serious health consequences. Anaemies may develop against a background of iron (microcytic) or vitamin B12 and folic acid (macrocytic) deficiency. Anaemia resulting from a reduced supply of copper or other vitamins, e. g: C, B6, B2, E. Deficiencies in macroelements such as calcium and phosphorus and vitamin D contribute to abnormal bone mineralization. Too low a level of magnesium can lead to abnormal neuromuscular conduction. On the other hand, a reduced vitamin K content in the body is associated with clotting disorders. Laboratory tests allow not only to measure the concentration of individual minerals and vitamins and to perform complete blood count, but also to assess other parameters that are the important complement to the diagnosis. Laboratory tests are the basis for implementing appropriate treatment, including pharmacotherapy and changing eating habits.

Key words: vitamin deficiencies, mineral deficiencies, laboratory tests