The Primary Cause: A Critical Vitamin, Not a Mineral
Scurvy results from a severe lack of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Humans cannot produce vitamin C and must obtain it from their diet. A prolonged absence of vitamin C-rich foods, primarily fresh fruits and vegetables, leads to scurvy, with symptoms typically appearing after about three months of insufficient intake. Vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis, a key component of connective tissues like skin, blood vessels, and bones.
The Key Mineral Deficiency Associated with Scurvy: Iron
Although scurvy itself isn't a mineral deficiency, low vitamin C levels impair the absorption of iron, a crucial mineral. This often results in iron deficiency anemia in individuals with scurvy. Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in red blood cells.
The Mechanism Behind Impaired Iron Absorption
Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron from plant sources by converting it to a more easily absorbed form. It also helps keep iron soluble for absorption in the stomach. Scurvy-related impaired collagen synthesis can cause internal bleeding, including in the gastrointestinal tract. This blood loss further depletes iron stores and contributes to anemia.
Other Associated Nutritional Deficiencies
People with severe vitamin C deficiency often have poor overall diets and may suffer from other nutritional deficiencies. Healthcare providers should check for other issues when treating scurvy.
Commonly associated deficiencies include:
- Low Vitamin B12
- Folate (Vitamin B9)
- Zinc
- Calcium
Comparison: Scurvy Symptoms vs. Iron Deficiency Symptoms
Distinguishing between the symptoms of scurvy (vitamin C deficiency) and iron deficiency anemia is helpful, though some symptoms like fatigue overlap.
| Symptom | Scurvy (Vitamin C Deficiency) | Iron Deficiency Anemia |
|---|---|---|
| Gums | Swollen, purple, spongy, and bleeding gums | Pale gums |
| Skin | Petechiae (small red/blue spots), bruising, rough/scaly skin | Pallor (unusually pale skin) |
| Hair | Dry, brittle, and coiled “corkscrew” hairs | Thinning or brittle hair |
| Wound Healing | Severely impaired and slow wound healing | Impaired wound healing |
| Energy | Intense fatigue, weakness, lethargy | Fatigue, weakness, low energy |
| Bones & Joints | Bone pain, joint pain, hemorrhage into joints | No specific bone/joint symptoms, but bone loss is a long-term risk associated with overall poor nutrition |
Treatment and Prevention
Treating scurvy involves vitamin C supplementation and improving diet. This also helps restore the body's ability to absorb iron, correcting the associated deficiency. High doses of vitamin C are used for severe cases.
Practical Prevention
A balanced diet prevents both deficiencies.
- Prioritize Vitamin C: Eat citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries, broccoli, kiwi, and potatoes. Raw or lightly cooked options preserve more vitamin C.
- Enhance Iron Intake: Combine iron-rich foods (meat, poultry, fish, lentils, beans, spinach) with vitamin C sources. For example, have orange juice with a spinach salad.
- Avoid Inhibitors: Limit coffee, tea, or milk around iron-rich meals as they can hinder absorption.
Conclusion: Correcting the Nutritional Confusion
Scurvy is a vitamin C deficiency, but it is closely linked to iron deficiency. Low vitamin C hinders iron absorption from plant foods and can lead to blood loss, resulting in iron deficiency anemia. Addressing the vitamin C deficiency with diet and supplements cures scurvy and helps correct the associated iron deficiency. For more on vitamin C, see the National Institutes of Health fact sheet. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice on nutritional deficiencies.
