Alcoholics are at increased risk of thiamine deficiencies because of a combination of lower quality food intakes and a propensity for malabsorption and increased excretion of certain essential compounds. In the case of alcoholics, thiamine deficiency can lead to the formation of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which is characterised by aberrations in certain parts of the brain. The metabolic dysfunction that results from alcohol-induced thiamine deficiency can lead to permanent brain damage or even death. Thiamine is important to metabolic activity because it is required for nerve function, being pivotal in the generation of energy from glucose, a source of energy that neurones rely upon. However, to say that Wrnicke-Korsakoff syndrome only occurs in alcoholics is not true, as any person with a thiamine deficiency, particularly in the context of other nutritional deficiencies, can develop the condition. That being said, the neurodegeneration seen with thiamine deficiencies is more common in alcoholics, and may develop more thoroughly and more quickly in alcoholics compared to non-drinking contemporaries. There is also significant biochemical individuality whereby some individuals appear to be highly susceptible to a thiamine deficient state.
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