Disease Caused By Lack Of Vitamin C Crossword Clue
Introduction
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a crucial nutrient that our body needs to stay healthy. It is an antioxidant that helps in the growth and repair of tissues in our body. Lack of vitamin C in our diet can lead to various diseases, and one such disease is the subject of this article- a disease caused by lack of vitamin C crossword clue.
Scurvy
One of the most well-known diseases caused by a lack of vitamin C is scurvy. Scurvy is a disease that affects people who have a severe deficiency of vitamin C in their diet. It is a rare disease these days, but it was once common among sailors and pirates who spent long periods at sea without access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
Symptoms of Scurvy
The symptoms of scurvy include fatigue, weakness, and muscle pain. People with scurvy may also experience joint pain, swollen gums, and bleeding from the gums. They may also have skin rashes, and their wounds may take longer to heal. In severe cases, scurvy can lead to death.
Causes of Scurvy
The primary cause of scurvy is a lack of vitamin C in the diet. Our body cannot produce vitamin C, and we need to obtain it from the food we eat. People who consume a diet that lacks vitamin C or those who have a medical condition that affects the absorption of vitamin C may be at risk of developing scurvy.
Treating Scurvy
The treatment for scurvy is simple- increasing the intake of vitamin C. People with scurvy are usually given vitamin C supplements or advised to consume foods that are rich in vitamin C. Foods that are high in vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, mango, pineapple, and papaya, among others.
Other Diseases Caused By Lack Of Vitamin C
While scurvy is the most well-known disease caused by a lack of vitamin C, it is not the only one. Other diseases that can occur due to a deficiency of vitamin C include:
- Bleeding gums
- Dry skin
- Easy bruising
- Impaired wound healing
- Nosebleeds
- Swollen and painful joints
- Weakened immune system
Conclusion
Vitamin C is a crucial nutrient that our body needs to stay healthy. Lack of vitamin C in our diet can lead to various diseases, including scurvy. The symptoms of scurvy include fatigue, weakness, and muscle pain, among others. The primary cause of scurvy is a lack of vitamin C in the diet, and the treatment for scurvy is simple- increasing the intake of vitamin C. Eating a balanced diet that includes vitamin C-rich foods is essential for maintaining good health.