Symptoms of vitamin C deficiency
Acute vitamin C deficiency leads to scurvy. The timing of scurvy varies depending on the body's supply of vitamin C, but symptoms may appear within 1 month of low or no vitamin C intake (less than 10 mg per day). Early symptoms can include fatigue (possibly due to a disorder of carnitine biosynthesis), weakness, and gingivitis.
As vitamin C deficiency progresses, collagen synthesis is disrupted and connective tissues are weakened, causing bruising and blood clots, red spots on the skin, joint pain, delayed wound healing, horny skin, and dry, brittle hair.
Other symptoms of scurvy include depression as well as swelling, bleeding gums, and loosening or loss of teeth due to fragility of tissues and capillaries. Iron deficiency anemia can also occur due to increased bleeding and decreased iron absorption due to low vitamin intake. In children, bone disease may be present. If left untreated, scurvy is lethal.
By the end of the eighteenth century, many sailors on long ocean voyages contracted or died of Scurvy due to insufficient or no vitamin C intake. In the mid-1700s, Sir James Lind, a British naval surgeon, conducted experiments and found that drinking citrus juice could cure scurvy, although scientists did not prove that ascorbic acid was the active ingredient until 1932. Vitamin C and scurvy deficiencies are rare in developed countries today.
Symptoms of overt deficiency only occur when vitamin C intake is less than 10 mg per day for several weeks.
Vitamin C deficiency is uncommon in developed countries, but may still occur in people with limited dietary diversity.
Groups at risk of vitamin C deficiency
Smokers
Many studies show that smokers have lower levels of plasma vitamin C and leukocytes than non-smokers, in part due to increased oxidative stress. For this reason, the Medical Institute concluded that smokers need 35 mg more vitamin C per day than non-smokers.
Exposure to secondhand smoke also lowers vitamin C levels. Although the medical institute was unable to meet a specific vitamin C requirement for non-smokers who are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke, they should ensure that they meet the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for vitamin C.
Infants who are fed boiled milk
Most babies in developed countries are breastfed or formula-fed, both of which provide adequate amounts of vitamin C.
For many reasons, breastfeeding is not recommended. This can cause vitamin C deficiency, as cow's milk naturally has very little vitamin C and heat can destroy vitamin C.
People with limited dietary diversity
Although fruits and vegetables are the best sources of vitamin C, many other foods contain small amounts of this nutrient. Therefore, through a varied diet, most people should be able to get the vitamin C they need daily, or at least get enough to prevent scurvy. People with limited dietary diversity - including some elderly and poor people, people who abuse alcohol or drugs; Food addicts; People with mental illness; And sometimes, children - may not get enough vitamin C.
People with malabsorption and some chronic diseases
Some medical conditions can reduce the absorption of vitamin C or increase the amount needed by the body. People with severe intestinal malabsorption and some cancer patients may be at risk for vitamin C deficiency.
Low concentrations of vitamin C can also occur in patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing chronic hemodialysis.
Dosage:
Dissolve one tablet daily in a glass of water and drink after complete dissolution.
Warnings and Precautions:
If you have a history of allergies to vitamin C (ascorbic acid), foods and also have a history of kidney stones, consult your doctor or pharmacist before use.
- Store at below 30°C and away from moisture.
- Do not take more than 2000 mg of vitamin C per day.
Packing:
SamVit Eff Plus 500 & 1000 mg vitamin C effervescent tablet is available in a 20-pack of desirable orange flavors.
