Vitamin C Deficiency: Treatment, Procedure, Cost and Side Effects

Vitamin C is known to be a water soluble vitamin that keep the connective tissues of the body strong. It is also a highly effective antioxidant that keeps the immune system strong. Vitamin C foods should be eaten every day so as to replenish its supply in the body. The human body does not have the capacity to generate Vitamin C. In fact it cannot even store it, thus intake of the vitamin should be a part of the daily diet. If you do not have enough Vitamin C in your diet, you can suffer from its deficiency.

In fact, research has revealed that Vitamin C deficiency is very common among people all across the world. The deficiency of Vitamin C in the body can result in a number of symptoms like- bruising easily, swelling and bleeding of the gums, wounds heal slow, hair becomes dry and starts splitting, nose bleeds can occur, skin can become extremely dry and even scaly, weakens the immune system of the body, weakens the digestive tracts, weight gain and joint pain. Very severe Vitamin C deficiency can also result in the onset of Scurvy, which is a condition that results because the collagen in the body starts breaking down. This conditions largely affects the muscles, bones and immune system of the body. Scurvy these days is extremely rare.

When it comes to Vitamin C deficiency there are two ways that you can treat it. In fact, these two methods should go hand in hand. If you are diagnosed with Vitamin C deficiency, your doctor will initially prescribe supplements to restore it in your body. He may also refer you to a dietician, who will guide you to make the necessary changes in your diet. Vitamin C supplements may be stopped after you complete the dosage prescribed to you. But, henceforth you should ensure that you have plenty of foods that are rich in Vitamin C.

An individual who is likely to face Vitamin C deficiency, should ensure that some fruits and vegetables are a part of their daily diet. One should make sure they consumer at least 2-3 foods that are rich in Vitamin C very day. Some fruits and vegetables that are a rich source of Vitamin C are- Guava, Kiwi, red and green peppers, papaya, strawberries, kale, broccoli, brussels sprouts, pineapple, mango, peas, cauliflower etc.

You can easily whip up a fruits salad or eat one whole fruits that is a source of Vitamin C every day. The vegetable you may wither have raw or semi-cooked. Ensure that you do not entirely cook the vegetables as most of the vitamins and minerals will then be lost.

There are no particular side effects to the treatment.

While Vitamin C rich foods can cost as low as Rs2 - Rs3 (lemon) and Rs20 - Rs30 (Cauliflower), the supplements can range from Rs150 – Rs500 and even more.

The only way you can prevent or treat Vitamin C deficiency is by ensuring that you take supplements or eat foods that are rich in Vitamin C.