Friday, March 23, 2007

Nutrient risk after weight-loss surgery

According to a study published in the March issue of Neurology, some patients risk brain damage from vitamin B-1 deficiency. Vitain B-1, also known as thiamin, causes a syndrome called Wernicke's encephalopathy. It is most often seen in malnourished alcoholics.

If treated right away with vitamin B-1 shots, patients quickly recover. If not recognized quickly, it can result in permanent brain damage.

Researchers found 32 reports of Wernicke's in the weight-loss surgery patients studied.

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