Chronic alcoholism can lead to a deficiency in which vitamin?

Chronic alcoholism can lead to a deficiency in thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, due to several factors associated with excessive alcohol consumption. Alcohol interferes with the absorption of thiamine in the gastrointestinal tract and also affects its conversion to the active form in the liver. Additionally, individuals with chronic alcoholism may have poor nutritional intake, which further exacerbates the deficiency.

Thiamine is essential for carbohydrate metabolism and plays a crucial role in the functioning of enzymes involved in energy production. Its deficiency can lead to serious conditions such as Wernicke's encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome, which are neurological disorders characterized by confusion, ataxia, and memory problems. Thus, in the context of chronic alcoholism, thiamine deficiency is a significant concern and highlights the importance of monitoring nutrition in individuals with alcohol use disorder.