Scurvy, a disease caused by a severe deficiency in Vitamin C, plagued pirates back in the 1600s. This mid-evil disease is making a comeback in these modern times and is hitting some populations like the poor, the homeless, college students and people who have no access to fresh and nutritious foods.
A recent report in the journal Neurology: Clinical Practice reports of the recent increases of cases of scurvy by neurologists in San Francisco. Neurological symptoms of this disease include swollen gums, small blue and red spots on the skin, severe joint pain and bleeding. Symptoms are not usually seen until a severe Vitamin C deficiency has occurred for a few months.
The occurrence of this old disease is really a reflection on nutrition in the United States. In a study published in 2009 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10% to 17% of people who suffer from a Vitamin C deficiency great enough to cause scurvy are lower income individuals unable to get this critical vitamin from their foods.
Scurvy is often mistake for other issues and may go misdiagnosed for months.
Since Vitamin C supplements are readily available it can be an easy fix to avoid contracting this disease. Here are a few facts about Vitamin C you may not know:
Vitamin C is water soluble which means what your tissues can not absorb when you intake Vitamin C you waste. To avoid this try supplementing with a Timed Released Vitamin C to insure all day protection.
Man is the only mammal that does not produce Vitamin C internally. All the more reason to insure you are getting an adequate amount of this nutrient.
The RDA for Vitamin C is actually how much Vitamin C you need to intake to avoid getting scurvy. It is not an adequate representation of how much Vitamin C you might need to have optimal health.
Vitamin C, often called an antioxidant, has many benefits besides fighting off scurvy. It is well known in it ability to help with building your body’s defense system. One study recently published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found high levels of Vitamin C may provide a benefit for individuals fighting stomach cancer. Of course many people associate Vitamin C with Cold and Flu protection.
Here are a few choices when considering quality Vitamin C products to start adding into your healthy lifestyle program:
http://www.earthwiself.com/store/p/34-Complete-C-1000mg-90-tabs.aspx
https://naturesvitaminsonline.com/product/vitamin-c-1000-mg/
