Which of the following is a symptom of Vitamin C deficiency?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (A) bleeding from the gums

Explanation:

• Bleeding gums is a hallmark symptom of Scurvy, a disease caused by a severe deficiency of Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid).

• Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a structural protein that acts as "glue" for connective tissues, skin, and blood vessels.

• Without sufficient Vitamin C, the walls of the small blood vessels (capillaries) become fragile and break easily, leading to haemorrhages in the gums.

• Other symptoms include swelling of joints, delayed wound healing, and extreme fatigue.

• According to NCERT Science (Class 6), vitamins are required in small quantities to protect our body against diseases.

Information Booster:

• Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and amla (Indian gooseberry) are the richest natural sources of Vitamin C.

• Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin and is easily destroyed by heat during cooking.

• Beyond tissue repair, it acts as a powerful antioxidant and boosts the immune system.

Additional Knowledge:coming out of the stomach (Option B) * This is likely a reference to hernia or other gastrointestinal protrusions, which are physical structural issues and not related to vitamin deficiencies.

night blindness (Option C) * This is caused by the deficiency of Vitamin A (Retinol).

• It results in poor vision in low light or darkness; severe cases can lead to Xerophthalmia (permanent blindness).

abdominal pain (Option D) * This is a non-specific symptom that can be caused by various factors like food poisoning, infections, or indigestion.

• While severe Vitamin C deficiency involves general body aches, specific abdominal pain is not a primary diagnostic symptom of Scurvy.