A balanced and wholesome diet plays a crucial role in maintaining our body health. All the nutrients and minerals are important for the body. Vitamin C is one of the most important nutrients for the proper functioning of our body.

Apart from being responsible for the proper formation of the collagen in the body, it also helps in bone development, improves blood vessel health and wound healing. Deficiency of Vitamin C can lead to many diseases and many serious complications.

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Scurvy

Scurvy is the most prominent disease caused by Vitamin C deficiency. It is caused by a heavy deficiency of vitamin C in the body. It can cause bruising, bleeding gums, weakness, fatigue, rash, and more.

Early symptoms of scurvy can be unexplained tiredness and fatigue, reduced hunger, irritability, and pain in the joints. If not treated on time, it can also cause anaemia, gingivitis, skin hemorrhages, etc.

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Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland secretes excess hormones, so vitamin C is important for your thyroid health. Long-term deficiency can lead to excess secretion of hormones from the thyroid glands which can lead to hyperthyroidism. Early symptoms could be unexplained weight loss, heart palpitations, increased hunger, nervousness, tremors, changes in menstrual patterns in women, and more.

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Anaemia

Vitamin C promotes iron absorption, which is crucial to prevent diseases such as anaemia. Anaemia is caused due to decrease of red blood cells (RBCs) in your body. Fatigue, paleness, breathlessness, dizziness, weight loss can be some of the symptoms of Anaemia.

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Bleeding Gums

Vitamin C is extremely crucial for your oral health. It strengthens your teeth and protects your gums. Deficiency of Vitamin C can lead to bleeding gums and other oral health problems

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Skin problems

Vitamin C produces collagen and has antioxidant properties which are important for your skin health. Lack of Vitamin C can lead to skin lesions. Early symptoms can be spots of small subcutaneous bleeding.

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Treatment for Vitamin C deficiency

Adding Vitamin C-rich foods to your diet is the best way to treat the deficiency. Citrus fruits are a rich source of Vitamin D. Studies have shown that smokers have reduced amounts of vitamin C, so smoking should be avoided. If the deficiency is severe consult your doctor to get vitamin C supplements and the right treatment for the condition.