The Link Between Vitamin B1 Deficiency and Constipation Explained by Dr. Eric Berg DC
- Constipation occurs when there is a lack of peristalsis, which means the muscles in the gut are not working efficiently.
- The danger of constipation is more significant than the danger of taking laxatives because waste can build up in the body, leading to auto-intoxication.
- The lack of thiamine can lead to the soft tissue and muscle in the gallbladder becoming sluggish. The sluggishness can lead to less bile being released, leading to digestion problems.
Many people suffer from constipation, which is the inability to have regular bowel movements. In some cases, this can be a result of a nutritional deficiency. In this article, we will explore the link between constipation and vitamin B1 deficiency. Dr. Eric Berg DC, a chiropractor and nutrition expert, sheds light on this connection.
Understanding the Gut and Constipation
Before diving into the connection between vitamin B1 deficiency and constipation, it is important to understand the gut and how it functions. The gut, or gastrointestinal tract, contains more nerves than the spinal column. The vagus nerve connects the gut and the brainstem bidirectionally, meaning it goes up and down and carries information back and forth. The brainstem houses the core of the autonomic nervous system, which runs on automatic. This system includes
- Sympathetic nervous system
- Parasympathetic nervous system
- Enteric nervous system
The enteric nervous system is called the second brain, and it innervates the entire gut. The autonomic nervous system is very vulnerable to thiamine deficiencies. Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in the function of the autonomic nervous system. When there is a deficiency of thiamine, all sorts of things go wrong with the autonomic nervous system, especially regarding nerve innervation to the smooth muscle in the gut that controls peristalsis.
What is Peristalsis?
Peristalsis is the rhythmic contraction and relaxation of muscles in the gut that propels food and waste through the digestive tract. Constipation occurs when there is a lack of peristalsis, which means the muscles in the gut are not working efficiently. Severe thiamine deficiency can cause beriberi, a condition that involves the blocking of peristalsis, making it difficult for the intestines to pump waste through the body.
The Importance of Vitamin B1 in the Digestive Process
Vitamin B1 plays a vital role in the digestive process. When food is consumed, acid in the stomach breaks down protein, creating an environment that kills pathogens. The gallbladder secretes bile that helps break down fats, and the pancreas releases enzymes to break down food. The small intestine is where 90% of digestion occurs, and the large intestine is where more fermentation and digestion occur.
When people suffer from constipation, they often take probiotics, betaine hydrochloride, purified bile salts, or enzymes. Sometimes they turn to medication, such as laxatives, or herbal laxatives. However, taking these remedies does not necessarily address the root cause of the problem. The danger of constipation is more significant than the danger of taking laxatives because waste can build up in the body, leading to auto-intoxication.
How Vitamin B1 Deficiency Causes Constipation
Vitamin B1 deficiency can cause constipation in various ways. Firstly, it inhibits peristalsis, which leads to a lack of movement in the gut. Secondly, thiamine deficiency inhibits hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which is necessary to break down protein. When protein is not digested correctly, it can cause constipation. Thirdly, thiamine deficiency inhibits gastric motility, which can result in gastroparesis, where everything moves sluggishly through the digestive system.
Thiamine Deficiency and Gastroparesis:
Gastroparesis is a condition where the digestion slows down, and everything becomes sluggish. Diabetes is one of the primary causes of gastroparesis. Thiamine deficiency is also responsible for gastroparesis. A deficiency in thiamine can cause a slowing down of the digestion process, leading to gastroparesis.
Thiamine Deficiency and Biliary Dyskinesia:
Biliary dyskinesia is a condition where the gallbladder becomes sluggish and does not contract and release bile properly. Thiamine deficiency can cause biliary dyskinesia. The lack of thiamine can lead to the soft tissue and muscle in the gallbladder becoming sluggish. The sluggishness can lead to less bile being released, leading to digestion problems.
How to Get Vitamin B1:
It is essential to maintain proper levels of thiamine to prevent digestive problems. There are several ways to get vitamin B1. Foods that are rich in thiamine include whole grains, nuts, beans, and lean meats. Thiamine supplements are also available in the market. It is crucial to find a natural thiamine supplement instead of a synthetic one. Natural supplements are easily absorbed by the body and do not have any side effects.
In conclusion, Vitamin B1 plays a vital role in the digestive system, and its deficiency can cause several digestive problems, including constipation. Thiamine deficiency inhibits peristalsis, hydrochloric acid in the stomach, gastric motility, and can lead to gastroparesis and biliary dyskinesia. Regular bowel movements are crucial for keeping the body healthy, and taking remedies such as laxatives does not necessarily address the root cause of constipation. It is important to maintain proper levels of thiamine by consuming thiamine-rich foods to prevent digestive problems.