Beriberi Disease: Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) Deficiency
Introduction Beriberi is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease caused by a severe and prolonged deficiency of vitamin B1, also known as thiamine. Thiamine is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays a fundamental role in energy metabolism, nerve function, and cardiovascular health. Without sufficient thiamine, the body cannot efficiently convert carbohydrates into energy, and critical organs such as the brain, nerves, and heart begin to malfunction. The name “beriberi” originates from the Sinhalese language and means “I cannot, I cannot,” reflecting the profound weakness experienced by affected individuals. Although beriberi is uncommon in developed countries due to food fortification and improved nutrition, it remains a significant health problem in populations with malnutrition, chronic alcoholism, or certain medical conditions that impair nutrient absorption. Beriberi can develop rapidly, sometimes within as little as two to three weeks of severely reduced thiam...