Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Flu-like ache but definitely not the flu. Could it be linked to a nutritional deficiency?32 F.Height 5' 11. Weight 145lbs.Vegan diet, health-conscious, mildly-moderately active.I've basically had fatigue and consistent mild pain since I was a teenager (my doctor put it down to depression). But this has continued into adulthood and I'm becoming determined to get to the bottom of it.But for the past couple of weeks I've been having this really weird sensation of a deep ache and tightness throughout my body, like it's in my bones and my joints. The closest thing I can describe it as is that it's similar to when you have body aches with the flu, but not nearly that bad. It's quite mild, but I feel like I can feel it throughout my chest/back/ribs, in my arms and hands, and occasionally in my legs. It's not debilitating, it's just weird and a little uncomfortable. It's not consistent either, it sort of comes in little waves/pulses. I get a deep pain in my leg bones sometimes when the weather is very hot or very cold, and it's a similar ache to that but again not as severe, just a similar 'deep'ness.Have you heard of this before?!I'm looking into getting some tests done to see if I have a chronic deficiency. Last time I was tested I was told I don't have anaemia, but I'm also interested in vitamin B12 and D deficiencies. Also considering getting the genetic sequencing test to look for MTHFR mutation, because from my own research it seems that a lot of my symptoms link up with this.Is there anything else I should get tested for?I typically eat a very healthy, balanced diet. I get plenty of protein, supplement with a good quality B12, take vitamin D drops in winter, occasionally take Floradix for iron if I know I haven't eaten much iron that day. Occasionally I take K2 and hemp seed oil for omega 3-6-9.. ### Response: With vague non-specific body aches like that, a doctor can help elucidate a more thorough and specific history and exam. Not sure how long ago the last set of labs were and what exactly the hemoglobin and MCV values were, Id start with repeating routine labs like CBC and CMP, maybe a CK to check for muscle breakdown. TSH and vitamin D levels would not be unreasonable. The presence or lack of anemia on repeat testing can guide whether or not a B12 or homocysteine should be checked. Not sure why one would bypass these cheaper and possibly indicated tests for an expensive test for a gene variant that wouldnt change management without starting with routine labs and going from there.If one were truly concerned about malabsorption from diet, then consider celiacs testing and ruling out IBD if there are other GI issues..