What dietary recommendations should I provide to patients at risk of vitamin C deficiency?

Dietary recommendations for patients at risk of vitamin C deficiency:

• Advise increasing intake of foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli, and tomatoes.
• For infants and children under 5 years, recommend vitamin supplements containing vitamin C as per UK government Healthy Start vitamin guidelines, especially if they are breastfed or at risk of deficiency.
• Inform patients eligible for Healthy Start vitamins that these contain vitamin C along with vitamins A and D, and should be taken daily to prevent deficiency.
• Advise pregnant or breastfeeding women at risk of vitamin deficiencies to consider vitamin supplements that include vitamin C, especially if dietary intake is insufficient or if they follow restricted diets.
• Encourage a balanced diet including fresh fruits and vegetables to maintain adequate vitamin C levels and prevent deficiency.

These recommendations align with UK government guidance on vitamin supplementation and nutrition in at-risk groups, including children and pregnant women ¹.