Tag: Vitamin c symptoms

According to a 2001-2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), most people in the United States have sufficient intakes of vitamin C, but up to 7.1% of people may still develop a deficiency. So, what happens if I eat too little vitamin C? A consistent lack of this vital nutrient can lead to a cascade of health issues, starting with subtle signs and potentially progressing to the serious disease known as scurvy.

Symptoms of scurvy typically begin to appear after a period of one to three months of severely low vitamin C intake. This disease, historically associated with sailors and pirates, is caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid).

According to Healthline, even in developed countries, approximately 7% of adults may have a vitamin C deficiency. This widespread issue is linked to a range of health problems, from minor fatigue and skin issues to the severe and life-threatening condition known as scurvy.

The human body cannot produce its own vitamin C, relying solely on dietary intake to maintain sufficient levels. Consequently, the body's existing store can be depleted in as little as one to three months without proper nutrition, answering the crucial question: **How long does it take to develop a vitamin C deficiency?**.

According to the National Institutes of Health, vitamin C deficiency can occur with an intake below approximately 10 mg per day for many weeks. One of the earliest and most non-specific signs of a vitamin C deficiency is often persistent fatigue, which can be accompanied by generalized weakness and irritability. Because the body cannot produce or store vitamin C, a consistent lack of fresh fruits and vegetables is the primary cause.