Low vitamin C levels can lead to rough, bumpy skin, known as keratosis pilaris. This condition forms due to a buildup of keratin protein inside the pores and typically appears due to inadequate intake of Vitamin C, but may have other causes.
Vitamin C deficiency can cause hair to grow in coiled shapes and break off easily. Adequate vitamin C intake can help resolve hair abnormalities within a month.
Severe vitamin C deficiency can cause perifollicular haemorrhage, where small, bright red spots appear around hair follicles due to fragile blood vessels.
Vitamin C is essential for healthy skin as it protects against oxidative damage, promotes collagen production, and improves skin quality. A deficiency may lead to dry, damaged skin.
Weak blood vessels caused by poor collagen production due to vitamin C deficiency can result in easy bruising. This symptom requires further investigation into vitamin C levels, as it is often one of the first obvious signs of deficiency.
Vitamin C deficiency reduces collagen formation and causes slow wound healing. Chronic non-healing leg ulcers are linked to deficiency, and old wounds may reopen, increasing infection risk in severe cases.
Vitamin C deficiency can cause joint pain and bleeding within the joints. These symptoms are treatable with vitamin C supplements and usually resolve within a week.
Vitamin C deficiency can harm bone health, increasing fracture risk and osteoporosis. It plays a critical role in bone formation, which can be especially important in children's growing skeletons.
Vitamin C deficiency can cause red, swollen, and bleeding gums due to weakened gum tissue and blood vessels. In advanced stages, gums may appear purple and rotten, and teeth may fall out due to weak dentin.
Vitamin C accumulates in immune cells to combat infection. Deficiency leads to poor immunity and a higher risk of infection, including pneumonia. People with scurvy often die of infection due to weakened immune systems.
Including fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C in your diet can provide enough sources of vitamin C.
Include foods high in ascorbic acids such as black currant, red pepper, kiwi fruit, guava, green bell pepper, orange, strawberries, papaya, broccoli, and kale.
Supplements may be recommended to treat a vitamin C deficiency. Adult men and women need at least 90 and 75 milligrams of ascorbic acid per day, respectively.
If you suspect a vitamin C deficiency, consult a trusted healthcare practitioner in a clinical setting for the best course of treatment.
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