Pellagra, Part 1
Stuff You Missed in History Class
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Intro
This chapter examines the historical condition of Pellagra, caused by niacin deficiency and its devastating effects on impoverished communities in early 20th century America. It delves into the symptoms, misconceptions, and the critical need for dietary reform to address this public health issue.
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Episode notes
The pellagra epidemic of the early 20th century may have been the deadliest epidemic of a specific nutrient deficiency in U.S. history. Part one covers what it is, its appearance in 19th-century Italy, and the first reports of it in the U.S.
Research:
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