Pellagra
Pellagra
is a disease caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin
B3 (niacin). It can be due to a diet high in maize (Indian
corn), alcoholism, severe diarrhea, parasites, cirrhosis
of the liver, post-surgical nutrient deficiencies, stress,
genetic predisposition, and consumption of junk foods,
which are very low in B vitamins and high in refined
sugars that deplete B vitamins.
Symptoms
of pellagra include diarrhea, dementia, and dermatitis;
redness and swelling of tongue and lips; burning of
the mouth, pharynx, and esophagus; abdominal distention
and pain or discomfort in the abdominal area; poor digestion;
vomiting; weakness; weight loss; stress and irritability;
poor tolerance to cold; and impaired memory, confusion,
and paranoia. In some cases, the skin can also turn
dark, becoming thicker, rougher, and very dry.
What
To Consider
Before
a diagnosis of pellagra can be made, you must first
rule out tongue and lip redness and swelling due to
other vitamin deficiencies or diseases, diarrhea, and
skin and central nervous system disorders due to other
diseases. In addition, since multiple deficiencies of
all the B vitamins and protein often occur together,
a dietary and nutritional supplementation program needs
to be balanced together and should be created under
the guidance of a health practitioner trained in diet
and nutrition.
Self-Care
Tips
Diet
Eat organic foods that are high in niacin and other
B vitamins, protein, and the amino acid tryptophan.
Such foods include organic whole grains, bananas, raw
seeds and nuts, peanuts, liver, avocados, broccoli,
potatoes, tomatoes, legumes, collard greens, enriched
breads and cereals, salmon, halibut, tuna, swordfish,
skinless breast of chicken, and turkey. Eliminate all
sugars and alcohol, and minimize your intake of maize.
Nutritional
Supplementation
Supplement with vitamin B 3, which is available in two
forms, niacin and niacinamide. Since niacin in doses
of 100 mg or more can sometimes cause flushing and chills,
many people prefer niacinamide instead, which does not
produce such symptoms. However, the symptoms are harmless
and niacin is the preferred form of vitamin B3 for pellagra. Also
supplement with vitamin B complex and free form amino
acids.
Caution
If your symptoms persist despite the above measures,
seek the help of a qualified health professional.
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