What vitamin deficiency leads to beriberi?

The deficiency that leads to beriberi is thiamine, also known as vitamin B1. Thiamine plays a crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism and is essential for the conversion of carbohydrates into energy. When thiamine is insufficient in the diet, the body's ability to utilize glucose effectively is impaired, leading to symptoms associated with beriberi, which can include muscle weakness, nerve damage, and cardiovascular problems. This condition can manifest in two main forms: wet beriberi, which primarily affects the cardiovascular system, and dry beriberi, which affects the nervous system.

Other vitamins listed, such as riboflavin, vitamin E, and vitamin K, do not cause beriberi and are associated with different deficiency-related diseases. For instance, riboflavin deficiency can lead to symptoms like sore throat and angular stomatitis, while vitamin K is essential for blood coagulation, and its deficiency can lead to excessive bleeding. Vitamin E is crucial for antioxidant protection in the body and its deficiency is rare, but can result in neurological problems. Understanding the specific roles of these vitamins helps differentiate their deficiencies and associated health issues.