Your Bleeding Gums Could Be the Result of Vitamin C Deficiency

There is nothing to seriously worry about if you have the occasional case of bleeding gums: this happens to everyone! If you start to notice that your gums are bleeding regularly, it’s time to take a closer look at the root cause.

To prevent bleeding gums, routine dental hygiene is recommended. Always try brushing twice a day, or after meals, floss regularly, and avoid a diet that promotes gum inflammation or decay.

If you are maintaining proper dental hygiene and are continuing to experience bleeding gums, you may be deficient in vitamin C. Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid plays a starring role in maintaining immune system balance, energy levels, and execution of everyday reparative functions in the body.

Fight Scurvy with Vitamin C

Did you know that ascorbic acid is vital to maintaining healthy teeth and gums? Studies show that vitamin C deficiency is the root cause of scurvy, a deadly disease commonly associated with pirates, but still cautioned against by the CDC. During long sea voyages, sailors would stock up on oranges, grapefruits, and other types of citrus to help fight off scurvy and prevent bleeding gums, tooth loss, and even death.

Scientists Link Bleeding Gums with Low Vitamin C Levels

In February 2021, Nutrition Reviews released the results of a study in which 1,100 participants, from six different countries, had their gums gently probed to test for bleeding. In conjunction with data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, covering 8,200 additional participants, researchers found that bleeding gums were found in participants with low levels of vitamin C. It was also found that participants could reduce bleeding by increasing their daily intake of vitamin C.

What Does Vitamin C Do For the Body?

It’s recommended that individuals consume 500 MG of vitamin C every day. It can help:

1. Develop and repair bodily tissue.
2. Maintain proper immune health.
3. Maintain memory and neurological capabilities affected by aging.
4. Assist in the formation of collagen.
5. Increase the absorption of iron in the body.
6. Maintain heart health and help prevent heart disease.
7. Promote dental health and happy gums.

Increase Your Vitamin C Intake

If you find yourself struggling to get the recommended daily dose of 500 MG, consider implementing small, easy changes to your routine to help boost your vitamin C intake.

You can do this by incorporating vitamin C-rich vegetables such as brussel sprouts, kale, chili peppers, and broccoli into your diet. For those who can’t stomach greens, fruits like oranges, strawberries, and lemons are also high in this valuable vitamin.

Consider adding a daily supplement to your morning routine for a quick fix. In the time it takes to swallow a pill or chew up a gummy, you can reach ideal vitamin C levels.

Ask The Experts

Gum disease is serious and can lead to bad consequences for your health. If you’re experiencing gum inflammation or bleeding, be sure to consult a professional to identify the root cause of your discomfort.