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Scurvy

Scurvy is a medical condition that results from a lack or absence of Vitamin C.  This was a very common finding among sailors and pirates on ships of long voyage.

Fruits and vegetables often were loss early during the trip.

Scurvy does not occur in most animals because often they can synthesize vitamin C on their own while humans can not.

Today scurvy is found in the undernourished and those experiencing drought or lack of fresh fruit.

Vitamin C has several functions including helping with collagen production.

Symptoms:

–  Loss of teeth
–  Fatigue/Malaise
–  Bleeding from mucous membranes
–  Liver spots
–  Spongy gums
–  Open wounds

*** – Without treatment death was often seen.

Treatment

–  Replacement of Vitamin C through fruits and vegetables or other foods
–  Supplements