International Scurvy Awareness Day

International Scurvy Awareness Day is a worldwide holiday dedicated to the fight against scurvy. Many may ask what is the point of celebrating it, since scurvy is only an event of the past, when sailors faced this disease caused by a lack of vitamin C due to long voyages. However, it is not all that simple. Today in underdeveloped countries, where the population faces poverty and hunger, it is not difficult to get scurvy! It is celebrated every year on May 2.

History

The most frequent evidence of scurvy began to occur around the 11th century, when the Crusades took place. European knights traveled to the East for days at a time. Inadequate nutrition and high stress resulted in the symptoms that accompany scurvy. However, it was not recognized as a dangerous disease until the 16th century, when the number of deaths from scurvy among sailors grew exponentially.

Scurvy is a disease caused by severe vitamin C deficiency. The most striking symptom is bleeding and inflammation of the gums, which can eventually lead to rotting and death. The disease was most commonly afflicted by sailors. Long voyages on ships with monotonous food did not allow the body to replenish the need for vitamin C (and others).

The discovery of citrus fruit as the main element in the treatment of scurvy was made by the physician James Lind at the end of the 19th century. Since then, they began to consume citrus fruits fresh, drink juices, etc. to prevent scurvy. The disease began to decline.

Interesting facts

• Many modern people perceive scurvy as a stereotype of the sailors of those days and pirates. Although many people still suffer from it to this day.
• According to botanists, an orange is a berry. It is also worth noting that the orange is the most common representative of the citrus fruit.
• In addition to their high vitamin C content, citrus fruits are an excellent natural antioxidant, contain flavonoids (strengthen blood vessels and heart), are rich in vitamin A (support good eyesight) and much more. They are a real treasure trove of health benefits.

How to celebrate

Learn more about the symptoms and effects of scurvy. What else is a vitamin C deficiency dangerous? Eat more citrus fruits fresh on this day, or prepare your favorite dishes based on them.

Spread the word about the holiday on social media. Ask other users if they or their relatives have experienced scurvy.

When is International Scurvy Awareness Day Celebrated in 2024?

International Scurvy Awareness Day is associated with the anticipation of happiness and joy. It is observed on May the 2nd each year.

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