What are the causes and treatment for Scurvy?
Scurvy is one of the oldest deficiency diseases known to mankind that is caused by the deficiency of Vitamin C or ascorbic acid. This disease mostly afflicts children and is often mistaken for paralysis, rheumatism or rickets. For many decades, scurvy was attributed to the unavailability of adequate food and was common among sailors who went on long voyages and consumed a diet restricted to fish, salt, meats and bread that was void of fresh fruits and vegetables. In the 18th century, a British naval surgeon suggested that citrus fruit juices prevented and treated scurvy. This led to the discovery that scurvy was caused due to the deficiency of vitamin C. What are the causes of scurvy? This disease is primarily caused by deficiency of ascorbic acid and inadequate intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. Individuals who consume a diet that lacks in organic mineral salts that are necessary for maintaining the health and vitality of the body are susceptible to scurvy, particularly children w
