Frequent Stomatitis: Not Just a Vitamin Issue? An SOS Signal from Your Body

Modern medicine identifies various causes for frequent stomatitis, especially aphthous stomatitis, but many aspects align closely with the concept of 'deficiency fire' in Donguibogam. If deficiency fire means an imbalance caused by an energy deficit in the body, modern medicine links this to specific nutrient deficiencies, decreased immunity, and stress. When we hear 'vitamin deficiency', it is easy to think only of vitamin C, but what is deeply related to stomatitis is actually the vitamin B complex—specifically riboflavin (B2), folic acid (B9), vitamin B12—and iron. These nutrients play an essential role in cell growth and cell division. The mucosal cells of our oral cavity are among the fastest-regenerating tissues in the body. When these nutrients are deficient, cell division does not proceed smoothly, lowering the regenerative capacity of the mucosa and leaving it vulnerable to minor irritation and inflammation. Iron is an essential mineral that produces blood and transports oxygen. Iron deficiency can induce not only anemia but also atrophy of the oral mucosa, causing tongue pain or stomatitis. Folic acid and vitamin B12 are essential for DNA synthesis, so when they are deficient, mucosal cells cannot form properly, causing the mucosa to become thin and susceptible to damage. Riboflavin (B2) also plays a critical role in energy metabolism and cell regeneration. Furthermore, chronic nutritional deficiencies can weaken the overall immune system. If our body's defense system does not function properly, it reacts hypersensitively even to normally harmless bacteria or viruses in the oral cavity, readily triggering inflammatory reactions and making stomatitis difficult to heal once it develops. Stress is another major factor that promotes the secretion of cortisol, suppressing immune function and worsening inflammatory reactions. Therefore, frequent stomatitis is not simply a localized oral issue, but rather a clear distress call indicating that the body is struggling with depleted nutrients and weakened immunity. This is why we need to look beyond simple vitamin supplementation to evaluate our broader dietary patterns, lifestyle habits, and stress management. Along with an accurate evaluation, restoring your body's overall balance is essential.