*Vitamin C Deficiency DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.110892*

fatigue. If left untreated, scurvy can progress to more severe symptoms, including skin discoloration and irritation.

Research indicates that the average prevalence of vitamin C deficiency among adolescents is around 7.1%, with levels below 11.4 μmol/L in some studies and below 11 μmol/L in others. Currently, recommended levels of vitamin C in the body range from 11 to 40 μmol/L or ≥ 11 to 28 μmol/L. However, it is noteworthy that approximately one-fifth of the population in the United Kingdom is deficient in vitamin C, even at optimal levels [9].

Scurvy is a disease caused by insufficient intake of vitamin C. In Ireland, there has been a decrease in vitamin C consumption due to changes in potato consumption patterns. Initially, potatoes were a staple, but processing methods have led to a 20–40% reduction in their vitamin C content. Fresh potatoes contain a vitamin C concentration similar to apples, pears, or even oranges and lemon juice, averaging around 40–50 mg/100 g.

Adequate vitamin C intake is crucial for various bodily functions, including the maturation of collagen, a protein essential for tissue, skin, cartilage, and bone formation. According to a report from the World Health Organization and the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (2004), children should consume at least 45 mg of vitamin C daily, with a minimum intake of 10 mg per day. Generally, men require more vitamin C than women due to differences in hormonal metabolism [8].

Persistent loss and deficiency of vitamin C can significantly increase the risk of scurvy. Additionally, insufficient levels of vitamin C can lead to hypovitaminosis, where plasma concentration drops below standard levels. Research shows that approximately 10% of the population in the Western world suffers from hypovitaminosis, with plasma concentrations around 23 μM.

Furthermore, vitamin C deficiency is associated with brain disorders and can affect processes such as antioxidant metabolism and degradation [10].

Patients with inflammatory conditions and compromised immunity greatly benefit from vitamin C supplementation, as it aids in wound healing and enhances immune function [11]. Vitamin C serves vital physiological functions that support immune health and overall wellbeing. Adequate levels of vitamin C contribute to improved wound healing and respiratory processes.

Consistently low levels of vitamin C in patients can alter genetic expression, rendering the body more susceptible to various diseases. A deficiency in vitamin C impairs the body's ability to manage antioxidants and weakens resistance to air pollution [12]. Furthermore, low serum levels of vitamin C can lead to death, with smokers being at greater risk due to increased antioxidant activity, which can compromise respiratory function [12].

Diabetes mellitus often leads to delayed wound healing due to heightened oxidative pressure mechanisms. ROS, such as superoxide anions, can decrease insulin production and impair insulin signal transduction activity. Early intervention with sufficient vitamin C supplementation can help mitigate ROS levels before diabetes onset. Vitamin C deficiency exacerbates the situation, leading to increased ROSinduced inflammation in wounds among individuals with diabetes mellitus [13].
