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Do Not Ignore These Signs Of Vitamin C Deficiency!

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that is needed in regular quantities for the optimal working of vital body functions.

Some prominent factors that cause Vitamin C deficiency include:

Signs Of Vitamin C Deficiency

While the deficiency of the vitamin doesn’t show up immediately, here are some subtle, silent signs that you should definitely not ignore of Vitamin C deficiency.

1. Dry and damaged skin

The epidermis of healthy skin needs massive amounts of vitamin C, so if the skin starts to appear dull and lifeless, this may mean that the body is yearning for some vitamin C. Vitamin C also helps in the production of collagen which keeps the skin youthful and full of life.

2. Slow healing process

Since healthy levels of vitamin C have a direct impact on collagen production, it tends to slow down the body’s healing process when faced with a deficiency. This is, however, an advanced stage of the deficiency and the body primarily shows the other symptoms first.

The highest amount of vitamin C is found in amla, which is economical as well.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

3. Bleeding Teeth and Gums

Swelling in the gum tissues or bleeding is a common sign of a vitamin C deficiency. In advanced stages of a deficiency, the gums may appear slightly purple and as the deficiency keeps increasing the teeth start to fall off.

4. Painful joints

The cartilage of the joints is primarily made of collagen and therefore low levels of vitamin C results in less padding around the bone areas which ultimately leads to painful joints. This also results in inflammation and swelling around the joints and bones.

Vitamin C is commonly implicated in the growth and repair of tissues in the body and is commonly found in citrus fruits, as a supplement, oral forms are commonly preferred.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.

5. Unusual looking fingernails  

Spoon-shaped nails are often thin and brittle. They are more commonly associated with iron deficiency anemia but also have been linked to vitamin C deficiency. Red spots or vertical lines in the nail bed may also appear due to vitamin C deficiency as a result of weakened blood vessels that rupture easily.

6. Poor Immunity

Vitamin C accumulates inside various types of immune cells and helps them combat infection and destroy disease-causing pathogens. A vitamin C deficiency means poor immunity and a higher risk of infection, including serious illnesses like pneumonia.

7. Fatigue and Poor Mood

A vitamin C deficiency leads to fatigue and poor mood. These may be the first symptoms to appear and get better in a few days after adequate intake of vitamin C supplementation.  

8. Unexplained Weight Gain

Vitamin C may prevent obesity by regulating the release of fat from fat cells, reducing stress hormones and decreasing inflammation. While excess body fat alone is not enough to indicate a vitamin C deficiency, further examining is required to rule out other factors.

Also Read: Best Vitamin C Products In India For Improved Health

Best Sources of Vitamin C

Now that we know about the harmful conditions that the deficiency of this vitamin causes, here are some best food sources of this vital vitamin that we should definitely incorporate into our diet:

  1. Guava
  2. Parsley
  3. Strawberry
  4. Lychees
  5. Kiwifruit
  6. Papaya
  7. Broccoli
  8. Orange
  9. Lemon
  10. Brussels sprouts, to name a few

While it is important to include these essential food items in the everyday diet, it is also important to keep in mind that these fruits and veggies are to be consumed raw rather than having them in the cooked format. Also, the body throws out excessive quantities of vitamin C thus it is imperative that vitamin C-rich fruits and veggies are consumed on a daily basis. However, do not self-diagnose or take medications without proper consultation.

And always remember, a diet rich in vitamin C is a valuable investment towards good health and well-being.

Also Read: What Is Scurvy? A Deep Dive into the Vitamin C Deficiency Disease

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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