Underconsumed Nutrients in the US: A Guide to Closing the Nutrient Gap

November 13, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, significant portions of the population do not consume enough dietary fiber, vitamin D, calcium, and potassium, nutrients critical for long-term health. This widespread issue, often termed 'hidden hunger,' affects millions despite a seemingly abundant food supply, underscoring the importance of understanding what are the underconsumed nutrients in the US and how to address these deficiencies.

Quick Summary

The typical US diet results in a significant underconsumption of several key vitamins and minerals. This guide details the most common nutrient shortfalls, identifies populations at risk, and provides actionable strategies to improve dietary intake of these vital nutrients through food sources and supplementation.

Key Points

Prevalence: A significant portion of the US population fails to consume adequate levels of key nutrients like fiber, Vitamin D, calcium, and potassium.
Hidden Hunger: Despite an abundant food supply, reliance on processed, nutrient-poor foods is a primary driver of nutrient deficiencies.
Public Health Concern: The underconsumption of certain nutrients has been identified as a public health concern by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans due to links with chronic disease.
At-Risk Groups: Certain demographics, including adolescents, pregnant women, and the elderly, are at a higher risk of specific nutrient deficiencies, such as iron and vitamin D.
Actionable Steps: Increasing intake of whole foods, choosing fortified products, and consulting a healthcare provider about supplementation are effective strategies to close the nutrient gap.

The standard American diet, characterized by its reliance on processed foods and low intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, has led to a major public health challenge: the underconsumption of essential nutrients. The most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) highlight specific nutrients as a public health concern, meaning their low intake is associated with adverse health outcomes.

The Primary Underconsumed Nutrients in the US

Several nutrients consistently fall below recommended intake levels across the US population. Addressing these deficiencies is crucial for preventing chronic diseases and promoting overall wellness.

Dietary Fiber

Dietary fiber, found in plant-based foods, is vital for digestive health, blood sugar management, and may reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. However, a large percentage of Americans do not meet daily fiber recommendations.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for calcium absorption and bone health, and also supports immune function. Many are at risk of deficiency due to limited sun exposure and low intake of fortified foods.

Calcium

Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, nerve transmission, and muscle function. Many Americans, particularly adolescents and women, do not consume enough calcium-rich foods.

Potassium

Potassium, an essential mineral, helps regulate fluid balance and is important for blood pressure control and cardiovascular health, offsetting the effects of excess sodium. Diets high in processed foods often contribute to low potassium intake.

Other Notable Underconsumed Nutrients

In addition to the primary nutrients, others are also underconsumed by specific groups or the general population. These include magnesium, Vitamins A, E, K, and iron, particularly for groups like pregnant women.

Causes of the Nutrient Gap

A reliance on processed foods and a lack of diverse, nutrient-rich foods contribute significantly to this gap.

Strategies for Increasing Nutrient Intake

Increasing consumption of whole foods, considering fortified options, and consulting a healthcare provider about supplements are key strategies.

Comparison of Key Underconsumed Nutrients


Nutrient	Primary Functions	Top Food Sources	Symptoms of Deficiency	At-Risk Populations
Dietary Fiber	Digestive health, blood sugar control, cholesterol reduction.	Beans, lentils, whole grains, fruits, vegetables.	Constipation, metabolic syndrome, elevated cholesterol.	Most of the US population, especially low vegetable intake groups.
Vitamin D	Calcium absorption, bone health, immune function.	Fatty fish, fortified milk and cereals, some mushrooms.	Osteoporosis, weakened immune system, fatigue.	Homebound individuals, those with limited sun exposure, people with darker skin.
Calcium	Bone and teeth structure, nerve and muscle function.	Dairy products (milk, yogurt), leafy greens, fortified foods.	Osteoporosis, muscle cramps, bone fractures.	Adolescents, women, vegans.
Potassium	Blood pressure regulation, fluid balance, muscle function.	Bananas, leafy greens, potatoes, beans.	High blood pressure, fatigue, muscle weakness.	Those consuming high amounts of processed foods.
Magnesium	Over 300 biochemical reactions, blood sugar control, sleep regulation.	Leafy greens, nuts, seeds, legumes.	Muscle cramps, fatigue, insomnia, heart palpitations.	Over 50% of the adult US population.

Conclusion

Addressing the underconsumed nutrients in the US is achievable through focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods, utilizing fortified products, and considering strategic supplementation under medical guidance. Prioritizing these essential nutrients is a proactive approach to health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving overall well-being. For more detailed information, consult authoritative resources like the {Link: MDPI https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/12/1957}.

Underconsumed Nutrients Q&A

Frequently Asked Questions

The most commonly underconsumed nutrients in the US include dietary fiber, vitamin D, calcium, and potassium, as identified by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Dietary fiber is underconsumed primarily due to a diet high in processed foods and low in plant-based sources like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, which are rich in fiber.

Individuals with limited sun exposure, homebound individuals, and people with darker skin are at a higher risk for vitamin D deficiency, as the body synthesizes vitamin D from sunlight.

You can increase your calcium intake by consuming more dairy products like milk and yogurt, eating leafy green vegetables such as kale, and choosing fortified foods and beverages.

Low potassium intake, often coupled with high sodium intake, can contribute to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

For most people, a balanced diet is the best way to get nutrients. However, for those with diagnosed deficiencies or difficulty meeting needs through diet, supplementation can be helpful, but a healthcare provider should be consulted.

Yes, some studies suggest that industrial farming practices and soil depletion have contributed to a decline in the nutrient density of certain crops over time, potentially impacting overall intake.