It is no news that our body needs vitamins and minerals to function optimally. But thanks to our cosmopolitan lifestyle, which typically includes eating a lot of junk and processed food, our diet lacks these essential nutrients.
But what are the essential nutrients we are talking about? We are not just talking about protein, but vitamin C. We all know that vitamin C is essential, but keep in mind that it is not only essential for skin health but for other aspects of health as well.
Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is responsible for several functions in your body such as the development of collagen (a protein that promotes joint and skin health), the absorption of iron from the foods you eat, rapid healing of wounds and bruises, optimal functioning. of the immune system and protecting the health of cartilage, bones and teeth.
Your body does not produce or store vitamin C, so the only way to get it is by consuming foods or supplements rich in vitamin C. If you are in the habit of regularly consuming alcohol, smoking cigarettes, or suffer from anorexia (disordered eating), there is a high chance that you have a vitamin C deficiency.
But how do you know you have a vitamin C deficiency? Getting a medical checkup is the way to go. But before that, it is essential to recognize certain signs of vitamin C deficiency.
Signs of vitamin C deficiency
Your wounds heal slower
Vitamin C is essential for collagen production. Without collagen, your body does not produce enough collagen essential for wound healing and skin cell replacement. It is essential in all phases of wound healing, including synthesis, maturation, secretion and degeneration. Vitamin C deficiency affects the maturation phase by slowing down scar formation.
You have hyperpigmentation and dull skin.
Do you dream of having that perfect skin? You should add vitamin C to your daily diet. If you have skin problems, such as hyperpigmentation and dull skin, it could indicate a vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and improves collagen production and skin tone. Its deficiency can cause these problems.
You feel exhausted all the time
Do you feel exhausted all the time? It could be vitamin C deficiency. According to clinical studies, exhaustion is one of the first signs of vitamin C deficiency.
This nutrient plays a crucial role in converting food into energy. Without enough vitamin C, your body has difficulty performing essential metabolic functions, leading to low energy levels. As a result, you may feel sluggish or exhausted, even after a full night’s sleep. This constant state of tiredness can affect your daily activities and lifestyle.
You have bleeding gums.
Vitamin C is vital for maintaining healthy gums and teeth. It helps in the production of collagen, a protein that supports the structure of the skin, blood vessels and tissues. A lack of vitamin C weakens the gums, making them more likely to become irritated, swollen, and bleed. If you notice your gums bleed when brushing or flossing, it could be a sign that your vitamin C levels are too low.
You have joint pain
Collagen is essential for keeping joints strong and flexible, and vitamin C plays a key role in its production. When you are deficient in this vitamin, the loss of collagen can cause your joints to become weak, swollen, or stiff. Joint pain, especially without an obvious cause, may be an indicator that your body is not getting enough vitamin C to maintain healthy connective tissues.
Final thoughts:
As has been established, vitamin C is an essential nutrient. Its deficiency can cause various problems in the body. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of these signs, as it is the first step towards treating the deficiency. From fatigue and bleeding gums to joint pain, these symptoms are your body’s way of signaling the need for more vitamin C. Fortunately, this deficiency can be easily addressed through dietary changes, such as eating more fruits and vegetables like oranges, strawberries and bells. peppers.
Book your full body health check today
