Science & Nature · 1
Which disease is caused by a deficiency of vitamin C?
Answer
Scurvy
Scurvy results from prolonged vitamin C (ascorbic acid) deficiency, preventing the body's synthesis of collagen, a crucial structural protein. This leads to weakened connective tissues, bleeding gums, tooth loss, poor wound healing, and reopening of old wounds—devastating consequences for long-distance sailors with limited access to fresh produce. The disease was responsible for more naval deaths in the Age of Exploration than combat, until the adoption of citrus provisions proved effective prevention.
💡 Did you know?
British sailors earned the nickname 'limeys' after discovering limes cured scurvy during long sea voyages.
Other options people guess
- Beriberi
- Pellagra
- Rickets
Topics
- human-body
- biology
- nutrition
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