Scurvy: A Forgotten Threat Returns?

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Post on Oct 23, 2024

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Scurvy: A Forgotten Threat Returns?

Remember those pirate stories from your childhood? The ones with scurvy-ridden pirates, pale and weak, desperately craving fresh fruits? It sounds like a thing of the past, right? Well, hold your horses! Scurvy is still lurking around, and it might be closer than you think.

The Lowdown on Scurvy

Scurvy is a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. This essential vitamin plays a vital role in building and maintaining healthy bones, skin, and blood vessels. Without enough vitamin C, our bodies can't function properly. We're talking serious stuff here!

The Symptoms: More Than Just Bleeding Gums

You might be thinking, "Bleeding gums? That's the only symptom of scurvy, right?" Wrong! While bleeding gums are a classic sign, other symptoms can include:

• Fatigue and weakness: You feel tired all the time, even after a good night's sleep.
• Joint pain and swelling: Your joints feel achy and stiff, especially in your legs.
• Bruising easily: You get bruises from the slightest bump or fall.
• Slow wound healing: Cuts and scrapes take ages to heal.

Who's at Risk?

While scurvy was once a major threat to sailors, it's not just a problem for pirates anymore. Anyone can develop it, especially:

• Older adults: As we age, our ability to absorb vitamin C decreases.
• People with certain medical conditions: Conditions like celiac disease or Crohn's disease can interfere with vitamin C absorption.
• People with eating disorders: Restrictive diets can lead to vitamin C deficiency.

The Good News: Prevention is Easy

The best way to avoid scurvy is to eat a balanced diet rich in vitamin C. Fruits like oranges, strawberries, and kiwi, as well as vegetables like broccoli, kale, and bell peppers, are all excellent sources.

You can also find vitamin C in supplements. However, it's best to get your daily dose of vitamin C from food whenever possible.

Scurvy: Don't Let it Sail Away!

Scurvy may seem like a problem of the past, but it's still very real. Don't let it catch you off guard! Be sure to load up on your fruits and veggies to keep this forgotten threat at bay.