Nutrition reviews
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Beriberi is a nutritional complication of gastric surgery, caused by deficiency of vitamin B1, or thiamine. Thiamine deficiency leads to impaired glucose metabolism, decreased delivery of oxygen by red blood cells, cardiac dysfunction, failure of neurotransmission, and neuronal death. This review describes the history and pathophysiology of beriberi as well as the relationship between beriberi and nutritional deficiencies after gastric surgery. ⋯ This may occur very soon or many years after gastrectomy or bariatric surgery, even in apparently well-nourished patients. Prompt recognition and administration of supplemental thiamine can decrease morbidity and mortality in patients with beriberi. Dietary education post surgery and long-term follow-up to determine nutritional status, including vitamin and mineral assessment, is recommended for patients who undergo gastric surgery.