Signs of vitamin C deficiency
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential micronutrient that plays an important role in maintaining the immune system, skin, bone and tooth health and supporting iron absorption. However, many people do not realize that they are deficient in vitamin C until obvious symptoms appear.
One of the most common signs is prolonged fatigue and physical weakness. Vitamin C deficiency disrupts cell energy production, making patients feel weak and lethargic. In addition, prone to bruising, slow wound healing, and bleeding gums are typical symptoms of decreased collagen production, an important protein that helps maintain connective tissue.
Vitamin C is an essential component of collagen synthesis. When deficient, the skin and blood vessels become weak and vulnerable, causing many health problems, especially in the gums and bones," said Dr. Eliseo Guallar, an epidemiologist at Bloomberg School of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University (USA).
Vitamin C deficiency also weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of infection and flu. Research shows that people with low vitamin C levels are more susceptible to respiratory diseases than people with a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Symptoms of vitamin C deficiency
Skin symptoms such as dryness, premature wrinkles, and joint pain and swelling can also be a warning. Some studies show that vitamin C deficiency reduces bone density, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
Another serious consequence is anemia due to reduced iron absorption, as vitamin C supports the metabolism of non-heme iron in plant-based foods. People with long-term vitamin C deficiency can develop rare but dangerous scorbut disease, with symptoms such as swelling of gums, tooth decay, joint pain, depression and emotional disorders.
According to Dr. Sarah Brewer, doctor and nutritionist at the British Nutritional Foundation (UK): Vitamin C deficiency not only affects the body but also causes psychological disorders. Some people with vitamin C deficiency may experience depression, anxiety, and even behavioral changes.
To prevent vitamin C deficiency, experts recommend supplementing through a diet rich in fruits and vegetables such as oranges, grapefruits, kiwis, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli and tomatoes. People at high risk such as smokers, pregnant women or people recovering from surgery should consult a doctor to supplement vitamin C appropriately.
If you experience the above symptoms, you should see a doctor for timely diagnosis and treatment to avoid serious complications due to prolonged deficiency.
