Which Vitamin Deficiency Causes Scurvy?
August 23, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Scurvy is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that helps maintain the health of connective tissues, skin, blood vessels, and bones. Without sufficient vitamin C, the body’s ability to produce and maintain collagen is impaired, leading to a range of symptoms and health problems associated with scurvy.
Symptoms of scurvy can include fatigue, weakness, swollen and bleeding gums, joint pain, slow wound healing, anemia, and skin changes. If left untreated, severe scurvy can lead to more serious complications and can be fatal.
In the past, scurvy was a common and serious problem among sailors on long sea voyages, as their diets lacked fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C. Today, scurvy is relatively rare due to the availability of vitamin C-rich foods and supplements. Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes), strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli, and other fruits and vegetables are good sources of vitamin C.