Vitamin C deficiency: warning signs and remedies

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Extract from the article: Vitamin C is one of the best-known and most important vitamins. It is essential for strengthening the immune system, cell repair and recovery from injury. Vitamin C deficiency can therefore lead to a series of negative reactions that directly affec

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Vitamin C is one of the best-known and most important vitamins. It is essential for strengthening the immune system, cell repair and recovery from injury.   Vitamin C deficiency can therefore lead to a series of negative reactions that directly affect physical and mental health.

Although difficult to notice at first, some symptoms become apparent over time, making vitamin C deficiency obvious.

Fragility and hair loss

Fragility and hair loss are often associated with multiple factors that can deteriorate the scalp and hair. Among these, vitamin C deficiency is one of the most common causes, as it is an essential nutrient for maintaining collagen and the proteins that give it strength.   A diet low in vitamin C-containing foods can cause dryness, hair loss and scalp sensitivity.

Recurrent infections

People who are deficient in vitamin C tend to develop more infections than those who consume it in the quantities required for good health.   This nutrient is essential for the body's defense mechanisms and, ultimately, a reduction in its levels reduces its ability to destroy the pathogens that cause all types of illness.  Recurrent urinary tract infections, oral problems and skin allergies are all signs that we need to increase our intake.

Mood changes

Vitamin C is also closely linked to emotional health.   Adequate levels provide mental stability, tranquility and control over mood-inducing hormones.A drop in levels can lead to irritability, stress and other negative emotions that affect us all.

Fatigue

Fatigue, or the continuous sensation of tiredness, is a symptom that manifests itself for many reasons and health problems. Vitamin C deficiency is no exception, as this nutrient is necessary for optimal physical and mental performance.

Physical pain

Permanent physical pain needs to be analysed by a specialist, as there are many causes that can trigger it.Among them, nutritional deficiencies are very common, especially as they have a direct influence on muscle and joint health. For example, a lack of vitamin C reduces the absorption of certain minerals, leading to muscle weakness.   In addition, it prevents the correct synthesis of collagen, leading to weakness in the cartilage that protects joints.

Dry skin  

A daily intake of vitamin C is one of the best habits for soft, beautiful, healthy skin. This nutrient prevents early loss of collagen and elastin, two substances responsible for maintaining firmness and elasticity.   Vitamin C also promotes the elimination of toxins and reduces the risk of premature aging.It is also essential for good skin hydration, as it facilitates the absorption of nutrients and fluids.

Cardiovascular disease

The early development of certain cardiovascular diseases may be linked to a lack of vitamin C in the diet.   Its antioxidant action reduces cholesterol build-up, promotes blood cleansing and stimulates toxin elimination.  It is therefore essential for improving the connective tissue of organs, as it supports the functionality of cells, veins and arteries.

Foods rich in vitamin C: guava, raw or cooked red bell pepper, raw or cooked green bell pepper, papaya, orange, orange juice, mango, cabbage, pink grapefruit juice, vegetable juice, pineapple, parsley, lemon zest, sorrel, moringa leaves.

Recipe: 200g fresh pineapple, 100g fresh ginger, 2 limes, 20 lemongrass leaves, 1.5l water. Wash pineapple, ginger and lemongrass leaves well in fresh water. Peel, wash and chop the ginger.Remove the skin from the pineapple.Remove the core from the pineapple and cut the flesh into pieces.    Place the ginger and pineapple in a shallow dish.   Sprinkle with lemon juice. Mix and macerate for 15 minutes.Bring the water to the boil in a saucepan and place the lemongrass leaves inside. Boil for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and leave to infuse until cool.   Separate the water from the lemongrass leaves to obtain 500 ml of lemongrass tea.   Place the ginger and macerated pineapple in the bowl of a blender. Add the lemongrass tea and blend well to obtain a purée. This can be eaten at this stage to retain all the fiber. If not, strain the purée to recover the liquid. Serve chilled.

William O.

Article validated by Mathieu Kpônou Tobossi, Food Hygiene and Quality Specialist