Which nutrition support method increases risk of thiamin deficiency due to high glucose loads?

Which nutrition support method increases risk of thiamin deficiency due to high glucose loads?

• A. Enteral nutrition
• B. Hydration therapy
• C. Parenteral nutrition
• D. Oral supplements

Answer: (C)

High glucose administration drives up thiamine requirements because thiamine is a key cofactor in glucose metabolism. In parenteral nutrition, energy is delivered primarily as intravenous dextrose, which creates a rapid and substantial glucose load. If thiamine isn’t adequately supplemented in the PN solution, the increased demand can quickly exhaust stores, leading to deficiency and potential complications like Wernicke’s encephalopathy. Enteral nutrition also provides glucose and vitamins, but the critical factor is the IV, high-glucose delivery in PN that markedly raises the risk when micronutrient support isn’t promptly and adequately included. Hydration therapy lacks meaningful calories and micronutrients, and oral supplements alone don’t replace the comprehensive PN regimen.

High glucose administration drives up thiamine requirements because thiamine is a key cofactor in glucose metabolism. In parenteral nutrition, energy is delivered primarily as intravenous dextrose, which creates a rapid and substantial glucose load. If thiamine isn’t adequately supplemented in the PN solution, the increased demand can quickly exhaust stores, leading to deficiency and potential complications like Wernicke’s encephalopathy. Enteral nutrition also provides glucose and vitamins, but the critical factor is the IV, high-glucose delivery in PN that markedly raises the risk when micronutrient support isn’t promptly and adequately included. Hydration therapy lacks meaningful calories and micronutrients, and oral supplements alone don’t replace the comprehensive PN regimen.