What causes scurvy?

Scurvy is caused by a deficiency of Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in the diet. Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen, a protein that helps maintain healthy skin, gums, blood vessels, bones, and supports wound healing and the immune system.

Common symptoms of scurvy include bleeding gums, swollen joints, easy bruising, tiredness, poor wound healing, and loose teeth. Scurvy can be prevented by eating Vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges, lemons, guavas, amla (Indian gooseberry), strawberries, tomatoes, and capsicum.