Which Disease is Caused by Vitamin C?
November 4, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and preventing a condition known as scurvy. Scurvy is the disease that results from a deficiency of vitamin C.
Scurvy is characterized by a range of symptoms and health issues, including:
- Weakness and fatigue
- Anemia
- Swollen, bleeding gums
- Painful, swollen joints
- Skin rash
- Easy bruising
- Slow wound healing
- Dry, scaly skin
- Corkscrew-shaped body hair
- Gum disease
- Tooth loss
- Muscle pain
Vitamin C is crucial for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that is an essential component of connective tissues in the body, including the skin, blood vessels, bones, and tendons. Without sufficient vitamin C, the body cannot produce and maintain collagen properly, leading to the breakdown of these tissues and the development of scurvy.
Scurvy is rare in developed countries today because vitamin C is readily available in various foods, including citrus fruits (e.g., oranges, lemons, and grapefruits), strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, and leafy green vegetables. The recommended daily intake of vitamin C can easily be met through a balanced diet. However, scurvy can still occur in cases of severe malnutrition, dietary restrictions, or medical conditions that affect vitamin C absorption.
Vitamin C is also known for its antioxidant properties and its role in supporting the immune system, wound healing, and the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based foods.