Scurvy, once primarily associated with long sea voyages and naval expeditions until the 19th century, is now recognised as a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. Researchers identified that the condition results from a lack of fresh produce rich in vitamin C, which was scarce during extended journeys.
Modern-day scurvy cases are rare; however, vitamin C deficiency continues to be a problem for certain groups of people. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Priti Shankar, Family Physician, Apollo Clinic, Indranagar, sheds light on the same.
Also Read: Bleeding Gums Could Be A Sign Of Vitamin C Deficiency: How To Up Your Intake?
Prevalence Of Scurvy
A 2018 study published in Nutrition and Metabolic Insights found that scurvy is more prevalent in regions with lower socioeconomic conditions, with higher incidences reported in India, particularly in areas affected by poverty and malnutrition.
Globally, vitamin C deficiency, the root cause of scurvy, affects millions of people, according to StatPearls Publishing. The prevalence of this deficiency varies widely depending on factors such as age, lifestyle, access to nutritious foods, dietary choices, and underlying medical conditions. Regional differences are significant, with vitamin C deficiency rates ranging from as low as 7.1% in the United States to as high as 73.9% in northern India.
Symptoms Of Scurvy
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient that supports various bodily functions. Not only does it boost collagen production, building and maintaining tissues, including skin, bones, and blood vessels, but it also acts as a potent antioxidant that protects cells from damage caused by free radicals, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Moreover, it enhances iron absorption from plant-based foods and plays a crucial role in immune function.
Therefore, not getting enough vitamin C from your diet can lead to complications, including scurvy in severe cases. Symptoms include:
- Bleeding gums
- Loss of teeth
- Muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Red spots and rashes
- Irritability
- Weight loss
Who Is Most At Risk Of Scurvy?
It is important to note that certain groups of people are at a greater risk of developing vitamin C deficiency than others. These include:
- People who have a low intake of fruits and vegetables
- Those who consume excessive alcohol
- Smoking
- People with conditions like anorexia or bulimia
- Older adults who have reduced appetite and dietary changes
- Individuals who have certain medical conditions and have undergone surgical procedures
How To Prevent And Manage Scurvy?
The recommended daily intake of vitamin C varies based on age, gender, and specific conditions. To meet the nutrient needs of most healthy individuals and prevent deficiencies like scurvy, the NIH recommends 90 milligrams of vitamin C per day for adult men, while for women it's 75 milligrams.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women require slightly higher amounts.
To prevent and manage vitamin C deficiency, Dr Shankar recommends adding more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet on a regular basis.
In severe cases, particularly in patients with scurvy, high doses of daily vitamin C supplements, followed by a nutritious diet that supplies 1-2 times the daily recommended amount of vitamin C, may be needed, as per MSD manuals.
Bottomline
In modern times, scurvy is a rare but preventable condition primarily caused by severe vitamin C deficiency. Ensuring an adequate intake of fresh fruits and vegetables is essential for maintaining sufficient vitamin C levels and preventing related complications. If dietary intake is insufficient, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to explore supplementation or other treatment options.