Let’s talk about cardiac beriberi
Cardiac beriberi, also known as wet beriberi, is a severe manifestation of thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency that affects the cardiovascular system. Thiamine is an essential nutrient involved in energy metabolism, and its deficiency can lead to various neurological and cardiovascular symptoms.
This is how eating rice is linked to the increased risk of cardiac beriberi
There is a relationship between cardiac beriberi and mold-produced toxins in rice, particularly the presence of mycotoxins. Rice can be contaminated with molds such as Aspergillus flavus or Fusarium species. These molds can produce mycotoxins, and one specific mycotoxin, known as aflatoxin, has been linked to thiamine deficiency.
Aflatoxins are toxins produced by certain molds, particularly Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. These molds can grow on various crops, including grains like rice. Aflatoxins are known to have adverse effects on human health, and one of the consequences is interference with thiamine absorption and utilization. Aflatoxins can lead to a decrease in the bioavailability of thiamine, contributing to thiamine deficiency.
Thiamine deficiency, in turn, can result in beriberi, including the cardiac form, where the cardiovascular system is particularly affected. The heart muscle weakens, and the individual may experience symptoms such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and edema (fluid accumulation).
What are the symptoms of cardiac beri beri?
Cardiac beriberi primarily affects the heart, leading to cardiovascular symptoms such as an enlarged heart (dilated cardiomyopathy), which results in a weakened pumping ability.
Due to the weakened heart muscle, the heart may beat more rapidly to compensate for its decreased pumping efficiency.
The weakened heart muscle may struggle to pump blood effectively, leading to inadequate oxygen delivery to the body's tissues and causing shortness of breath.
Fluid retention and accumulation in the tissues, especially in the legs and ankles. This is a result of the heart's inability to pump blood efficiently, leading to fluid backing up in the veins.
Reduced blood flow and oxygen supply to the body's tissues can result in fatigue and weakness.
In severe cases, a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes may occur due to inadequate oxygenation of the blood.
Patients can also experience neurological signs
It's important to note that the symptoms of cardiac beriberi can develop rapidly and may be life-threatening if not promptly treated. In addition to the cardiovascular symptoms, individuals with thiamine deficiency may also experience neurological symptoms, which are more characteristic of dry beriberi. Neurological symptoms can include difficulty walking (ataxia), loss of sensation in the extremities (peripheral neuropathy), and mental confusion.
Here’s what you should know
It's important to note that not all rice is contaminated with molds or mycotoxins, and the occurrence of aflatoxin contamination depends on various factors such as storage conditions, agricultural practices, and climate. Additionally, while mold-contaminated rice is one potential source of aflatoxin exposure, other food products can also be contaminated.
To minimize the risk of thiamine deficiency and associated diseases like beriberi, it is crucial to ensure a diverse and balanced diet, proper food storage and hygiene practices, and addressing any factors that may contribute to mold growth in food products. If there are concerns about aflatoxin contamination, regulatory agencies often establish guidelines and standards to monitor and regulate the levels of these toxins in food products.
Here's how to eat rice in a healthy way
It is a common practice to cook rice in bulk store it in the refrigerator and use it for days. However, health experts warn not to leave cooked rice overnight. The microbial growth on cooked rice is not visible to the naked eye but when consumed it can be harmful. In order to make sure you get sufficient nutrients from the rice and are not damaging your health, always cook rice the same day. Eat freshly cooked rice everyday. As per researchers, rice is among those foods which grow molds very easily.
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