Which Vitamin Deficiency Causes Beriberi?
August 14, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Beriberi is a condition caused by a deficiency of thiamine, which is also known as Vitamin B1. Thiamine is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and for converting food into energy. Beriberi can have various symptoms, including muscle weakness, nerve damage, cardiovascular issues, and in severe cases, it can lead to heart failure or paralysis.
Thiamine deficiency is commonly associated with diets that are lacking in nutrient-rich foods or when the body’s ability to absorb thiamine is impaired. It can be found in foods such as whole grains, lean meats, legumes, nuts, and seeds. In regions where polished rice is a dietary staple, thiamine deficiency and beriberi have historically been more prevalent due to the removal of the nutrient-rich outer layers of the rice grain during processing.