Question

Beriberi is caused by the deficiency of which vitamin?
A) Vitamin A
B) Vitamin B
C) Vitamin C
D) Vitamin D

Answer 1

Hint: Thiamine deficiency, also known as beriberi, is caused by a lack of thiamine pyrophosphate, which is the active form of the vitamin thiamine. Thiamine pyrophosphate, the biologically active form of thiamine, decarboxylates alpha-keto acids and functions as a coenzyme in carbohydrate metabolism.

Complete answer:
Now let us look into the given options to find out the given answer:
Option A: This is not the correct option because Inflammation of the skin, night blindness, miscarriage, delayed development, and respiratory infections can all occur if you don't get enough vitamin A. Vitamin A levels in the blood can be low in people with wounds and acne, so higher doses of the vitamin can be beneficial.

Option B: This is the correct option because Beriberi, also known as thiamine deficiency, is a condition caused by a vitamin B-1 deficiency. The disease is divided into two types: wet and dry beriberi. The heart and circulatory system are affected by wet beriberi. Wet beriberi can lead to heart failure in severe cases. Dry beriberi causes nerve damage, which can lead to muscle weakness and ultimately muscle paralysis. Beriberi is a life-threatening condition if left untreated.

Option C: This is not the correct option because Scurvy is a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C in your diet for at least three months. Vitamin C can be found primarily in fruits and vegetables. Scurvy is not necessarily considered a threat to people who do not eat very healthily all of the time.

Option D: This is not the correct option because Vitamin D deficiency can cause bone density loss, which can lead to osteoporosis and fractures (broken bones). Vitamin D deficiency can also contribute to the development of other diseases. It can cause rickets in children.

Thus the correct answer is option ‘B’.

Note: Beriberi, like other vitamin shortages, is a critical condition that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Beriberi treatment that is delayed can result in long-term complications or death. If you have beriberi symptoms or suspect that your diet is deficient in thiamine, seek medical attention right away.