Vitamin C is required by the human body for synthesis of collagen. Its deficiency can result in Scurvy. The Latin name for Scurvy, scorbutus, provides the chemical name for Vitamin C- ascorbic acid. Scurvy was once very common among pirates, sailors or other people who are separated from vegetables and fruits for long periods of time.

Scurvy in children is referred to as Moeller’s disease or Barlow’s disease. There are several symptoms which can depict the presence of this disease. Several signs include:

1. The primary symptom is the inability to produce and maintain the intercellular substance of fibrous tissues such as dentine, cartilages and matrix of bones. Due to this, there is increased permeability of capillaries to red blood cells which can result in haemorrhage. The formation of new bones stop but the absorption of bones goes on. The bones get friable at growing ends and there is als delay in the healing of old wounds.
2. Other symptoms include internal bleeding, loss of teeth, pain in muscles, tender gums, sunken eyes, pale skin, weakening and also opening of already healed wounds such as sword cuts.
3. These symptoms are followed by kidney and lung trouble, diarrhea, fainting and exhaustion.

Scurvy can be cured or prevented by intake of Vitamin C. Nowadays, scurvy rarely affects adults, but elderly and infants are seen to be affected by it. Scurvy can be prevented by including citrus fruits such as lemons or oranges in the diet. Other efficient sources which contain rich amount of Vitamin C are strawberries, bell peppers, tomatoes, papaya, kiwifruit, guava and blackcurrants.

Vegetables which contain Vitamin C are paprika, spinach, cabbage, potatoes, broccoli and carrots. Several fruits and vegetables which do not contain or have low quantities of vitamin C can be pickled in lemon juice, as it contains rich amount of vitamin C. Meats and animal products like oysters and livers also contain Vitamin C.

Although, vitamin C is present in a balanced diet, there are many supplements which provide ascorbic acid in excess to prevent and cure scurvy. Also, soft drinks and candies contain ascorbic acid as preservatives.