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Beyond Gums: Scurvy's Hidden Skin & Mind Symptoms
6 Mar
Summary
- Scurvy manifests beyond gum issues, affecting skin, muscles, joints, and mental health.
- Severe vitamin C deficiency causes scurvy, often due to prolonged absence from diet.
- Robbie Williams contracted scurvy after using weight loss medication and reduced food intake.
Scurvy, a rare disease resulting from severe vitamin C deficiency, extends its impact beyond commonly known gum and mouth issues. Pharmacist Claire Nevinson highlighted that skin, muscle, joint, and even mental health symptoms are also connected to this condition.
The deficiency occurs when an individual has a prolonged absence of vitamin C in their diet. Vitamin C is readily available in numerous fruits and vegetables, including peppers, broccoli, brussel sprouts, sweet potatoes, and kiwi fruit. Oranges are a particularly rich source, with one medium orange providing approximately 90% of an adult's daily recommended intake.
Without timely treatment, scurvy can become fatal. Last year, musician Robbie Williams disclosed his diagnosis after using weight loss medication, which led him to reduce his food intake and consequently, his nutrient absorption. He explained this dietary change was the cause of his scurvy.
Anyone experiencing symptoms associated with vitamin C deficiency should seek immediate medical attention to ensure proper treatment and recovery.
