As you explore the pros and cons of making changes, consider how eating and exercise habits affect your body on a daily basis. These can provide clues to how your system is working. A serious nutrition deficiency can only be determined by your doctor, but there are ways to assess your nutritional health on a day-to-day basis.

Dry skin & hair may be caused by a deficit of healthy fats or a lack of B vitamins.

Premature aging (wrinkles, sagging, dark spots, and dull skin) can reveal the body’s natural repair processes are being overwhelmed by poor lifestyle habits.

Urine color can reveal dehydration or other problems in your intestines and kidneys.

Eczema may be linked to food allergies and/or food sensitivities, microbial imbalances, or gut-level irritations. Some research suggests that eating processed foods can cause inflammation which may lead to inflammatory disorders, like eczema.

Nails that are weak or splitting could be due to a deficiency in vitamin A, vitamin C, or biotin, a B vitamin.

Eye health can be hurt by a deficiency in vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Mood & energy may suffer if you are not giving your body enough fuel. You may feel cranky and easily irritated. Eating very sugary foods can also trigger headaches, discomfort, and tiredness as blood sugar spikes and drops sharply.

Regular bowel movements may be a worry for you. How easy or difficult it is for you to clear toxic waste from your body can reveal clues about your fiber intake, hydration, and absorption of nutrients. Certain foods may also be more difficult for you to digest, leading to stomach pain and problems going to the bathroom.

Benefits to healthy eating and exercise go beyond reducing long-term health risks. What you put in your body affects how you look and feel right now!