A simple bump or scrape can leave some people with unsightly bruises, and experts say this could be a sign of a serious nutritional imbalance. According to naturopath Lydie Palmieri, frequent, easy bruising is often linked to a vitamin C deficiency.
Vitamin C is an essential antioxidant that supports healthy skin, bones, and connective tissue. However, the human body cannot produce or store this vital nutrient sustainably, making daily consumption crucial. “The human body can neither produce nor store vitamin C sustainably,” Palmieri emphasised.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin C is around 75 milligrams for women and 90 milligrams for men, per the Mayo Clinic. This vitamin is found primarily in fresh fruits and vegetables, with higher concentrations in uncooked produce compared to cooked, frozen, or canned options.
Dr. Howard E. LeWine, Chief Medical Editor of Harvard Health Publishing, noted that while vitamin C deficiency is the most common culprit for easy bruising, other nutrient imbalances such as zinc or vitamin B deficiencies can also manifest in this way.
Vitamin C deficiency, known as scurvy, is considered rare in developed countries due to the widespread availability of diverse food sources. However, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) warn that affected individuals may exhibit deficiencies in other essential nutrients as well.
Other potential symptoms of severe vitamin C deficiency include bleeding gums, fatigue, dull skin, frequent illness, corkscrew hair, and tiny red spots around hair follicles.
If you find yourself bruising easily, it’s important not to jump to conclusions, as factors like blood thinners, aging skin, and corticosteroids can also contribute to bruising. The best course of action is to consult your doctor, who can properly diagnose any underlying nutritional imbalances.
