Which deficiency is commonly associated with alcoholism and undernourishment?

Thiamine (B1) deficiency is commonly associated with alcoholism and undernourishment due to the primary role of thiamine in carbohydrate metabolism and its importance in neuronal function. Alcohol consumption not only reduces the intake of essential nutrients like thiamine but also impairs its absorption in the gastrointestinal tract and its conversion to its active form in the liver. Alcoholics often have poor dietary habits, leading to decreased thiamine intake, and the chronic inflammation caused by alcohol can further hinder effective absorption.

Thiamine plays a crucial role in various enzymatic reactions, particularly in the metabolism of glucose. Its deficiency can lead to serious conditions such as Wernicke's encephalopathy, characterized by confusion, ataxia, and ophthalmoplegia, and can also contribute to the development of Korsakoff syndrome, which involves memory disturbances and confabulation. Given the common association between thiamine deficiency and chronic alcoholism, recognizing its importance in this context is vital for both understanding pathophysiology and guiding appropriate therapeutic interventions.