Our bodies need many nutrients for overall good health, and most times we get these nutrients from certain foods. But it is quite unfortunate that many Western diets today do not contain a sufficient amount of certain minerals and vitamins that are essential for many body functions. Instead, these foods are filled with grains, saturated fats, sugar, and not enough vegetables and fruits. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that nearly 10% of the U.S population is suffering from nutritional deficiencies. And the common mineral deficiencies vary by gender, age, and race/ethnicity. More so, our bodies may not be getting enough nutrients due to several reasons, including: • Health problems such as digestive disorders or kidney disease – This could hinder the absorption of certain minerals and vitamins. • The side effect of certain medications • Restrictive diets • Unhealthy foods. While your body may get enough nutrients to function optimally from a consistently healthy diet, others may need a higher amount of certain minerals or vitamins for body development. That said, here is a list of some incredibly common mineral deficiencies: