Question

Beri Beri is caused due by the deficiency of

• A. Vitamin B12
• B. Vitamin B2
• C. Vitamin B6
• D. Vitamine B1

Hint:

Beriberi is common in populations that rely heavily on polished (white) rice, as the thiamine-rich husk is removed during processing. Eat brown rice to stay safe!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Vitamin B complex consists of several water-soluble vitamins that act as coenzymes in various metabolic pathways. A deficiency in a specific B vitamin leads to characteristic clinical syndromes. Beriberi is one of the most historically significant deficiency diseases.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Beriberi is caused by a deficiency of Vitamin B1, also known as Thiamine. Thiamine is converted in the body to thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP), which is a crucial coenzyme for several enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, such as pyruvate dehydrogenase. When thiamine is deficient, the body cannot efficiently metabolize glucose, which primarily affects the nervous system and the heart—tissues with high energy demands. Beriberi is classified into "Dry Beriberi" (affecting the peripheral nervous system) and "Wet Beriberi" (affecting the cardiovascular system).
Evaluating other options:
- Vitamin B12 (Option 1) deficiency causes Pernicious Anemia.
- Vitamin B2 (Option 2), or Riboflavin, deficiency causes Ariboflavinosis (cracks in the corners of the mouth).
- Vitamin B6 (Option 3), or Pyridoxine, deficiency can cause dermatitis and neurological issues but not Beriberi.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency is the direct cause of Beriberi, characterized by nerve and heart dysfunction.