Monday, November 28, 2016

Thiamine Deficiency

Thiamine (Vitamin B1), like all vitamin B molecules, are water soluble. So our bodies need to be constantly resupplied with Vitamin B. A deficiency can lead to health problems such as Beriberi and Korsakoff's syndrome.

1. Beriberi
Vitamin B1 acts as a coenzyme in carbohydrate metabolism and in pentose phosphate pathway. Without it, the body cannot properly extract energy from food. Pyruvic acid builds up and causes loss of mental awareness, difficulty breathing, and heart problems.

2. Korsakoff's Syndrome
Korsakoff's syndrome is more common among alcoholics. Like with Beriberi, the brain needs to be able to extract energy from carbohydrates. Without enough energy, the brain cannot properly function. This can lead to degeneration of mammillary bodies or disruptions in signal pathways. As a result, a patient may experience memory loss and confabulation.

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