Vitamin C deficiency is a problem that is more common than you might think. A recent study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that one in seven young adults in Canada are deficient in vitamin C. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) in the US is 90mg for adult males and 75 mg for adult females. Aim to get your fill from foods and vitamin C supplements and watch for the following symptoms of deficiency.
Feeling Ill
When you aren't getting enough vitamin C in your diet, adults may feel weak, tired and irritable. You might also lose weight and have slightly achy muscles and joints.
Scurvy
If you've had a vitamin C deficiency for a few months, you might start to notice symptoms of scurvy. You could have bleeding around the hair follicles, under the skin, into your joints and around your gums. Gums can also become spongy, swollen and purple. Hair won't be healthy either, taking on a dry and brittle feel. Skin starts to look scaly and feel dry and rough. Infections become more prevalent, wounds won't heal and you may experience anemia.
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