Nutritional Diseases

Nutritional Diseases Beriberi Relatively rare in the United States, Beriberi is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin B1 , also known as thiamine, in the diet. The disease involves peripheral neuritis – nerve degeneration – and myopathy – muscle disease, particularly affecting heart muscles. Symptoms include diarrhea, loss of weight, fatigue, and heart failure. Beriberi is prevalent in eastern and southern Asia. Because many alcoholics fail to eat a balanced diet, it is sometimes associated with chronic …

…States. Treating the disorder is quick and easy, but without treatment scurvy can be life threatening. The lack of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in the body weakens the walls of capillaries, causing the bleeding, anemia , and general decline in health associated with scurvy. Regularly eating fresh fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C will prevent scurvy. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, berries such as strawberries and raspberries, raw cabbage, and potatoes are all rich in the vitamin.