The risk for developing thiamine deficiency is generally low in industrialized countries where people have more reliable access to thiamine-containing foods. However, there is a higher risk among certain groups of people.
Some of the most common risk factors for thiamine deficiency include.
alcohol dependence or long-term misuse
older age
AIDS
long-term use of parenteral nutrition, or a way of receiving nutrients using an IV into the bloodstream
chronically elevated blood sugar levels
chronic vomiting
eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa
weight loss surgery
diets high in polished rice or processed grains that lack thiamine
dialysis, used to treat kidney conditions
high dose use of diuretics (medications used to treat fluid retention)
health conditions that affect your ability to absorb vitamins and minerals
Pregnant and breastfeeding or chestfeeding people, as well as individuals with overactive thyroid, may also have a higher risk for thiamine deficiency due to their increased needs for the nutrient.
Additionally, infants who are exclusively breastfed by thiamine-deficient parents are at higher risk of deficiency.
SUMMARY
Thiamine deficiency is rare in highly industrialized countries with access to thiamine-rich foods and supplements. However, common risk factors for thiamine deficiency include conditions like eating disorders, weight loss surgery, alcohol dependence, and the use of medications that promote fluid loss.
Some of the most common risk factors for thiamine deficiency include.
alcohol dependence or long-term misuse
older age
AIDS
long-term use of parenteral nutrition, or a way of receiving nutrients using an IV into the bloodstream
chronically elevated blood sugar levels
chronic vomiting
eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa
weight loss surgery
diets high in polished rice or processed grains that lack thiamine
dialysis, used to treat kidney conditions
high dose use of diuretics (medications used to treat fluid retention)
health conditions that affect your ability to absorb vitamins and minerals
Pregnant and breastfeeding or chestfeeding people, as well as individuals with overactive thyroid, may also have a higher risk for thiamine deficiency due to their increased needs for the nutrient.
Additionally, infants who are exclusively breastfed by thiamine-deficient parents are at higher risk of deficiency.
SUMMARY
Thiamine deficiency is rare in highly industrialized countries with access to thiamine-rich foods and supplements. However, common risk factors for thiamine deficiency include conditions like eating disorders, weight loss surgery, alcohol dependence, and the use of medications that promote fluid loss.