Vitamin C helps in collagen production and when vitamin levels are low, a skin condition known as keratosis pilaris develops. In this, there's bumpy chicken skin on the upper arms, thighs and buttocks.
Easy bruising is another common sign of vitamin C deficiency since poor collagen production causes weak blood vessels. The bruises can appear as small purple dots under the skin or may cover large areas of the body.
Slow wound healing is one of the more advanced signs of vitamin C deficiency as it slows the rate of collagen formation.
Another sign of vitamin C is weak bones. Research has found that vitamin C plays a critical role in bone formation, so its deficiency can increase the rate of bone loss.
Red, swollen and bleeding gums are other common signs of a vitamin C deficiency. Eventually, teeth can also fall out due to unhealthy gums and weak dentin.
Studies have shown that vitamin C helps with various types of immune cells. Vitamin C deficiency is linked with poor immunity and a higher risk of infection, including serious illnesses like pneumonia.