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beriberi
(ber″e-berŽe)
an endemic form of polyneuritis due to an unbalanced diet, chiefly a lack of thiamine (vitamin B1). It is more common in areas where refined rice is the main staple in the diet; however, improved refining processes, enrichment
and fortification of grain and cereal products, and improved dietary habits have now decreased its incidence. In the United
States, mild forms sometimes occur in persons on extremely restricted diets. Alcoholics, who tend to decrease food intake
drastically during periods of drinking, may show signs of beriberi. See also alcoholism.
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