2. What is Scurvy Scurvy is a condition caused by a lack of vitamin C in the diet. In the past scurvy was common among sailors and other people deprived of fresh fruits and vegetables for long periods of time.
3. Symptoms Symptoms of scurvy are: • a feeling of discomfort, • tiredness, • nausea • muscle and joint pain • easy bruising, • swollen and bleeding gums, • loosening of teeth, • wounds healing slowly and poorly, • dry skin and hair, and • bleeding into muscles and joints causing pain
4. Lacking Nutrient The only cause of scurvy is a diet that is lacking in an adequate amount of vitamin C. Another important cause of scurvy is stress which increases the utilization of ascorbic acid