Vitamin C deficiency may start with nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue, low energy, and a sense of increased susceptibility to infections. With more pronounced deficiency, gum bleeding, easy bruising, small skin hemorrhages (petechiae), delayed wound healing, and musculoskeletal pain can appear. Severe deficiency can progress to scurvy, often recognized by gum problems and bleeding tendencies.\n\nThe first-line solution is diet. A daily combination of one vitamin-C–rich fruit (kiwi, orange, mandarin, strawberries) and one vitamin-C–rich vegetable (peppers, broccoli, parsley, Brussels sprouts) can restore adequacy for many people. Consistency matters because vitamin C is not stored extensively.\n\nWho is at higher risk? People with low fruit/vegetable intake, restrictive diets, heavy alcohol use, smokers, certain malabsorption issues, and older adults. If you have significant gum bleeding, widespread bruising, or unexplained symptoms, medical evaluation and, if appropriate, lab testing are safer than relying on supplements alone.