Have you ever noticed that you bruise easily? You know what we mean. Those black and blue marks that look unsightly, and even after time turns them yellow, they aren’t any prettier. Not only do they look scary, but in some instances they can also be painful. And sometimes they’re a cause for concern because they may mean that you have an underlying medical problem, and it could be serious.
Today, we’ll explore why bruising happens, how you can prevent it, and when it might signal something more serious. And here’s a clue about one possible cause—some vitamin deficiencies might be playing a role.
What is Bruising?
Ecchymosis. That’s the medical term for bruising. It sounds as icky (that’s a non-medical term) as your bruises may look.
A bruise is what happens when small blood vessels burst underneath your skin’s surface, causing the blood to spill out from the capillaries and form a puddle just underneath the skin. Unlike cuts, where blood escapes the body, a bruise stays under the skin, changing colors as it heals—from red or blue to purple, then green or yellow, before finally disappearing.
Bruises is typically due to minor injuries—bumping into furniture, accidental impacts, or even a simple blood draw. However, some health conditions may make you more prone to bruising, even if they don’t directly cause it.
When Should You Be Concerned?
While bruises on the arms and legs are common and usually harmless, if they appear frequently, take longer than two weeks to heal, or show up in unusual places like the stomach, back of hands, ears, genitals, or buttocks, it’s a good idea to see a doctor.
Vitamin Deficiencies That Can Lead to Bruising
Vitamin C Deficiency
Vitamin C plays an important role in collagen production, which helps keep blood vessels strong. A lack of this vitamin can cause fragile vessels, making bruising more common. Foods high in vitamin C—such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, and broccoli—can help. Smokers, in particular, may be at higher risk of deficiency.
Vitamin K Deficiency
Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting. If you’re not getting enough, your blood may take longer to clot, leading to frequent bruises. This vitamin also helps strengthen capillary walls, reducing their likelihood of breaking.
Can a lack of Vitamin D lead to bruising?
We’ve blogged before about the some of the problems you might encounter if you’re low in some vitamins, such as vitamin D for instance. If you’re not getting enough vitamin D or some of the B vitamins, you may be making yourself more susceptible to bruising.
Other Supplements That May Increase Bruising
Some dietary supplements can thin the blood, making bruising more likely. These include:
Ginkgo, ginseng, ginger, and garlic
Omega-3 fatty acids
Vitamin E
Saw palmetto
