Why are there nutrient deficiencies in alcoholics?
Why are there nutrient deficiencies in alcoholics?
Nutrient deficiencies develop in people with alcoholism for several reasons: first is simply that some alcoholics neglect their food intake. They eat less food than they need, and instead get the bulk of their calories from alcohol; but since alcohol contains none of the micro-nutrients that are essential for health,…
How does an alcohol dependency affect your health?
For people with an alcohol dependency, the toxic effects of the alcohol itself aren’t the only health problems that develop. In the long term, alcoholism also leads to the development of deficiency in several different vitamins and minerals.
What are the side effects of chronic alcoholism?
Some chronic alcoholics develop a condition called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which results from a thiamine (vitamin B-1) deficiency. The condition, which is sometimes called wet brain, is characterized by eye movement disorders, loss of muscle coordination, confusion and memory issues.
What kind of brain damage does alcoholism cause?
Alcoholism can also cause significant brain damage. Some chronic alcoholics develop a condition called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which results from a thiamine (vitamin B-1) deficiency. The condition, which is sometimes called wet brain, is characterized by eye movement disorders, loss of muscle coordination,…
What are the best vitamins for alcoholics?
Research shows a combination of vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B-6 and niacin, a B vitamin , reduces anxiety for alcoholics in the early stages of recovery, according to the University of Michigan Health System.
How does alcohol cause nutrient deficiencies?
When alcohol replaces foods in a person’s diet, the decreased intake of nutrients can cause primary malnutrition. Consuming too little of any of the essential nutrients (protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and/or minerals) can lead to deficiencies and health problems. Deficiencies can also occur because alcohol and its metabolism prevent the body from properly absorbing, digesting , and using the essential nutrients in your body.
Why are alcoholics thiamine deficiency?
The reason why alcohol causes a thiamine deficiency is that many alcoholic patients get gastritis which leads to nausea, anorexia , and vomiting. Alcoholic patients also tend not to eat a healthy diet. Thiamine is also a water-soluble vitamin. This condition of beriberi is not to be confused with alcoholic cardiomyopathy.