Which vitamin, also called ascorbic acid, helps prevent scurvy?

Vitamin C, commonly known as ascorbic acid, plays a crucial role in preventing scurvy, a disease resulting from a deficiency of this essential nutrient. Scurvy is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, swollen gums, joint pain, and anemia, all of which arise due to the body’s inability to produce collagen without adequate levels of Vitamin C. Collagen is vital for maintaining the integrity of connective tissues, blood vessels, skin, and bones.

In addition to its role in preventing scurvy, Vitamin C contributes to the immune system's function, acts as an antioxidant, and aids in the absorption of iron from plant-based foods. While other vitamins like E, D, and K have their respective benefits—such as supporting antioxidant activity, regulating calcium metabolism, and assisting in blood clotting—they do not have a direct connection to the prevention of scurvy. Hence, Vitamin C is the key vitamin associated with scurvy prevention.