Disease Caused Due To Deficiency Of Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a vital nutrient for our body which helps in maintaining healthy skin, bones, and cartilage. It is also known as ascorbic acid and is an antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C is essential for the proper functioning of our immune system and helps in the absorption of iron from plant-based foods. However, a deficiency of this vitamin can lead to various diseases and health problems.
Scurvy
Scurvy is a disease caused due to the severe deficiency of vitamin C. The symptoms of scurvy include fatigue, weakness, muscle pain, and joint pain. The skin becomes dry and rough, and there can be bleeding gums and tooth loss. In severe cases, scurvy can lead to anemia, edema, and even death.
Bleeding Gums
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy gums and teeth. A deficiency of vitamin C can lead to bleeding gums and tooth loss. The gums become swollen, sore, and prone to bleeding. This condition is known as gingivitis.
Poor Immune System
Vitamin C is essential for the proper functioning of our immune system. It helps in the production of white blood cells that fight against infections and diseases. A deficiency of vitamin C can weaken our immune system, making us more susceptible to infections and diseases.
Anemia
Vitamin C helps in the absorption of iron from plant-based foods. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in our blood. A deficiency of vitamin C can lead to anemia, a condition in which there is a shortage of red blood cells in our body, leading to fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Dry Skin
Vitamin C is essential for maintaining healthy skin. It helps in the production of collagen, a protein that gives our skin its elasticity and firmness. A deficiency of vitamin C can lead to dry and rough skin, which can be prone to wrinkles and premature aging.
Slow Wound Healing
Vitamin C is essential for the proper healing of wounds. It helps in the production of collagen, which is necessary for the repair of damaged tissues. A deficiency of vitamin C can lead to slow wound healing and can increase the risk of infections.
Joint Pain
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bones and cartilage. A deficiency of vitamin C can lead to joint pain and stiffness. It can also increase the risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition in which there is a loss of bone density, leading to weak and brittle bones.
Conclusion
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for our body, and its deficiency can lead to various diseases and health problems. It is essential to include vitamin C-rich foods in our diet, such as citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, tomatoes, broccoli, and bell peppers. If you are unable to meet your daily vitamin C requirements through your diet, you can consider taking vitamin C supplements after consulting your healthcare provider.