Vitamin C is a type of vitamin that dissolves in water. This vitamin is one of the most important for the body because the body cannot produce it on its own. Vitamin C is usually obtained from food or supplements.

Vitamin C deficiency can interfere with body functions such as the growth and development of body tissues, collagen formation, iron absorption, a good immune system, slow wound healing, and decreased body protection against free radicals.

Signs of vitamin C deficiency

A deficiency of vitamin C can usually be identified through observable symptoms, including:

Rough skin and keratosis pilaris

Skin problems are not only affected by vitamin E alone. Vitamin C deficiency can affect collagen production, leading to rough skin and the formation of Keratosis pilaris. Keratosis pilaris is characterized by small bumps and bumpy skin on the upper arms, thighs or buttocks, often known as "chicken skin".

Frizzy and coarse hair

Hair that looks frizzy and coarse is one of the symptoms of vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C deficiency can affect the production and structure of hair proteins, causing hair to grow in unusual shapes.

Nail changes

Vitamin C deficiency is characterized by changes in nails that are sunken or convex, thin, brittle and may have red spots or lines. This is due to the disruption of collagen production in the nail, which changes the structure and appearance of the nail.

Easy bruising

Vitamin B and zinc deficiency are not the only causes of easy bruising; there is also a lack of vitamin C. Easy bruising occurs when blood vessels under the skin rupture, allowing blood to leak into the surrounding tissues. Vitamin C deficiency weakens blood vessels due to decreased collagen production.

Easy bruising due to vitamin C deficiency is characterized by the appearance of small purple dots under the skin of varying size and intensity.

Slow wound healing

Vitamin C plays an important role in the formation of collagen, a protein that is essential for the body's healing process. Vitamin C deficiency can slow down the formation of collagen, which results in slower wound healing.

Joint pain and swelling

Joints contain a lot of connective tissue that is rich in collagen. Vitamin C deficiency affects the production and structure of collagen in the connective tissues, resulting in joint pain and swelling.

There are many reported cases of joint pain associated with vitamin C deficiency. The pain is severe enough to cause difficulty walking.

Brittle bones

Vitamin C deficiency can affect bone health and increase the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Apart from vitamin D, vitamin C also plays an important role in the formation and maintenance of healthy bones.

Adequate vitamin C consumption can help maintain bone density and prevent bone loss.

Bleeding gums

Red, swollen, and bleeding gums are a common sign of vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C deficiency causes damage to gum tissue and blood vessels, which can lead to weak, inflamed gums that are prone to bleeding.

Decreased immunity

Vitamin C has an important role in supporting the immune system. Vitamin C deficiency is associated with decreased immune function and a higher risk of infections, including serious illnesses such as pneumonia.

To prevent vitamin C deficiency, eat a variety of vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables. In addition, you can take vitamin C supplements at the recommended dose. Discuss with your doctor the use of vitamin C supplements that are appropriate for your condition, age, and gender.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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