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Deficiency: Vitamin C deficiency is extremely rare. A lack of vitamin C leads eventually to scurvy. The symptoms are mainly due to poorly formed collagen and include the breaking open of small blood vessels, the reddening and bleeding of gums, loose teeth, joint pains, dry scaly skin and blood vessel damage. Other symptoms include general weakness, fluid retention, depression, and anemia. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to slower wound healing, increased susceptibility to infections, male infertility and increased genetic damage to sperm cells which may lead to birth defects. It may also contribute to rheumatoid arthritis and gastrointestinal disorders. |