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The Effects of Vitamin C DeficiencyVitamin C deficiency may occur in people who do not eat enough fruits or vegetables, or who eat more meat products than fresh foods. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, burns and surgery greatly elevate the body's need for Vitamin C and the risk of Vitamin C deficiency. Smoking also increases the body's need for Vitamin C by 30 to 50 percent. Scurvy is uncommon in newborns as breast milk usually supplies adequate amounts of Vitamin C. Many contemporary baby foods are also fortified with Vitamin C. In adults, Vitamin C deficiency may occur quickly, even within a few months of a low Vitamin C diet. Symptoms of Vitamin C deficiency include bleeding beneath the skin around hair follicles or bruising, gum bleeding, joint pain, depression, weight loss, fatigue, irritability and overall general weakness. The gums appear purple, are inflamed and are spongy to the touch. In advanced stages, loosening of teeth is seen. People with Vitamin C deficiency also experience regular infections while wounds either take long to heal or do not heal at all. In babies, deficiency symptoms include irritability, lack of appetite and pain during physical movements. Bone growth is impaired while unnecessary bleeding and anemia are big concerns. Scurvy can be diagnosed based on symptoms alone. Blood work may indicate very low quantities of Vitamin C. The simplest treatment for scurvy is daily Vitamin C supplementation. This may often be accompanied with iron supplements to combat possible anemia. Also Read:
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