15 Nutritional Deficiencies That Develop Slowly and Are Frequently Missed

13. Vitamin C Deficiency - Scurvy's Modern Manifestations

While severe vitamin C deficiency leading to scurvy is rare in developed countries, subclinical vitamin C deficiency is more common than generally recognized and can have significant health implications. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, immune function, iron absorption, and serves as a powerful antioxidant. Unlike most animals, humans cannot synthesize vitamin C and must obtain it from dietary sources. Early signs of deficiency develop gradually and include fatigue, joint pain, easy bruising, slow wound healing, frequent infections, and bleeding gums. As deficiency progresses, it can lead to more serious symptoms such as severe joint pain, loose teeth, poor wound healing, and in extreme cases, the classic signs of scurvy. Risk factors for vitamin C deficiency include inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables, smoking (which increases vitamin C requirements), alcoholism, certain medical conditions