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A group of pirates singing, 'We got scurvy, we need some vitamin C'

Scurvy! Isn't that a pirate's disease?

Yes, but it can happen to you, too!

Scurvy is a severe lack of vitamin C caused by not eating enough fruits and vegetables. It can lead to serious consequences for your health.

Flaticon IconBecause pirates didn't have access to enough fruits and vegetables, they were plagued by scurvy.

Flaticon IconIf you get busy, opting for fast food or avoiding fruits and vegetables can increase your risk of scurvy.

Did you know?

Scurvy can cause organ failure, coma, and even death (healthline.com, "What Is Scurvy?").

Symptoms

A doctor telling a patient never to Google their symptoms.

Consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms*:

  • bruising

  • bleeding gums

  • weakness

  • fatigue

  • rash

*Symptoms may not occur for a few months after your vitamin C drops too low.

Treatment

Pink singing 'we need a lemon tree'

If a doctor diagnoses you with scurvy, treatment* may involve:

  • Taking vitamin C supplements

  • Eating fruits and vegetables

    • lemons

    • limes

    • oranges

    • grapefruit

    • potatoes

    • broccoli

    • sweet peppers

    • strawberries

*Including these treatments in your regular diet can help prevent scurvy, too!

Quiz

Jack only has 15 minutes before his next class to grab a quick bite. Which of these would best help him avoid getting scurvy? (select all that apply)

Did you know?

Consult your doctor to know how much vitamin C you can safely consume in a day (healthline.com, "What Is Scurvy?").

Take Action

basket full of fruits and vegetables

Take these steps to prevent scurvy, even when you're busy:

License:

This Byte has been authored by

KA

Kitzzy Avilés

Instructional Designer, Leader and Facilitator

Master's Degree

This Byte has been reviewed by

LD

Lana Do

MD, MPH, BCMAS

English

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