How to identify a nutrient deficiency
Symptom: Swollen and/or bleeding gums.
Possible deficiency: Vitamin C.
About 6 percent of U.S. adults are vitamin C deficient. Vitamin C's ability to shorten the common cold is strongest in those with a vitamin C deficiency or those who are under great physical stress, such as soldiers and marathoners.
What to eat: Red peppers, citrus fruits, broccoli, tomatoes, and kiwifruit.
Supplement with: 200 mg vitamin C daily for optimal health.