Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is primarily involved in healing and repairing wounds. Individuals with blood levels of less than 0.2 mg/dL are considered deficient.
Dry, brittle, and coiled hair that hang in a spiral shape, bleeding around hair follicles, and gum bleeding are one of the most characteristic signs of Vitamin C deficiency.
Poor intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, restrictive diets, smoking, pregnancy along with some medical conditions such as Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and eating disorders increases the risk of Vitamin C deficiency.
Daily consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables such as guava, strawberry, papaya, kiwi, spinach, carrots, and bell peppers are the best way to prevent this deficiency. Treatment options include a diet rich in Vitamin C sources along with dietary supplements.
