Entrepreneurs are a breed apart. We thrive from the relentless hustle and push ourselves to the limit in pursuit of our vision. But in this relentless chase for success, it’s easy to neglect the most fundamental building block of our well-being: our health.
Here’s a wake-up call for those who prioritize their business plan over their health plan. Often, the fatigue, irritability, and foggy thinking we attribute to the stress of running a business could be signs of underlying nutrient deficiencies.
Let’s get into it a bit.
What Is a Nutrient Imbalance?
Our bodies rely on a delicate balance of various vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients to function properly. This balance is crucial for everything from generating energy and building tissues to regulating hormones and supporting brain function.
A nutrient imbalance occurs when this equilibrium is disrupted, leading to either a deficiency (not enough of a specific nutrient) or an excess.
According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, nearly 39% of Americans have at least one nutrient deficiency. This isn’t just a number; it translates to a significant portion of the population potentially operating below their peak performance, both physically and mentally.
For entrepreneurs, this can be particularly detrimental. Nutrient deficiencies can manifest in a multitude of ways, impacting everything from our energy levels and focus to our emotional resilience and decision-making abilities.
Causes of Nutrient Imbalance:
A diet lacking in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats can contribute to an excess of certain nutrients, like unhealthy fats and sodium.
Certain medical conditions, such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease, can hinder the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food.
During pregnancy, breastfeeding, or periods of rapid growth, the body’s demand for certain nutrients increases. If dietary intake doesn’t adjust accordingly, deficiencies can develop.
Some medications can interfere with the absorption or utilization of certain nutrients.
What Are Some Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore?
While the symptoms of nutrient deficiencies can vary depending on the specific nutrient lacking, some common red flags include:
Chronic fatigue: Feeling constantly drained, despite getting enough sleep, can be a sign of iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, or magnesium deficiency.
Headaches and brain fog: Difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, and frequent headaches could be linked to deficiencies in vitamin D, magnesium, or B vitamins.
Mood swings and irritability: Feeling on edge and easily triggered might be a sign of magnesium deficiency or imbalanced blood sugar levels, often caused by poor dietary choices.
Constipation and digestive issues: Irregularity and bloating can be indicative of a lack of fiber or magnesium, both crucial for a healthy digestive system.

How Does This Impact Me As An Entrepreneur?
Here’s a breakdown of how specific deficiencies can impact key areas for business success:
Energy levels: Deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, or magnesium can lead to chronic fatigue, hindering your ability to sustain long working hours.
Focus and concentration: Short-term memory problems and brain fog associated with deficiencies in vitamin D, B vitamins, or magnesium can make it difficult to focus on complex tasks and strategic decisions.
Decision-making: Imbalanced blood sugar levels, often caused by poor dietary choices, can lead to mood swings and irritability.
Emotional resilience: Deficiencies in magnesium can exacerbate feelings of stress and anxiety, making it harder to manage the inevitable challenges of running a business.

The Power of Food
It’s no secret that what we eat impacts how we feel. But for busy entrepreneurs, grabbing fast food or skipping meals altogether becomes a convenient (yet detrimental) habit.
Instead, focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods - fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. These provide the essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber our bodies need to function optimally.
Don’t underestimate the power of preventative measures:
Consult a nutritionist: A personalized assessment by a registered dietitian can help identify any potential nutrient deficiencies and create a customized plan to address them.
Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night. Sleep deprivation can exacerbate nutrient deficiencies and worsen symptoms.
Manage stress: Chronic stress depletes your body’s nutrient stores. Meditation, exercise, and relaxation techniques can help manage stress and improve overall well-being.

Remember, you are not a machine. You are a complex organism that thrives on a foundation of good nutrition, adequate sleep, and stress management.
By prioritizing your health, you’re not taking a step back from your business - you’re investing in your most valuable asset: yourself.
A healthier, more energized you translates to sharper focus, better decision-making, and ultimately, a greater chance of achieving your entrepreneurial goals.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can catch the full conversation with Barton Scott on our Making Bank podcast episode on YouTube.