Tag: Malnutrition in alcoholics

According to the National Institutes of Health, malnutrition is a common consequence of chronic alcohol consumption. It is not a simple issue of poor diet, but a complex interplay of systemic issues where alcohol actively prevents the body from properly absorbing, utilizing, and retaining essential vitamins and minerals.

Over 80% of individuals with chronic alcohol use disorder may experience thiamine deficiency alone. Primary malnutrition that results from chronic alcohol abuse occurs when high-calorie, nutrient-poor alcohol displaces a healthy diet, leading to critical deficiencies. This differs significantly from secondary malnutrition, where nutrient intake is adequate but absorption or utilization is impaired.