Pellagra, Part 1

Mar 3, 2025

The devastating pellagra epidemic in the early 1900s highlights the dangers of nutritional deficiencies linked to corn consumption in impoverished communities. The podcast dives into the historical ties between Italian immigration and dietary shifts in the U.S. It unpacks the 'Three Ds' of pellagra—dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia—and emphasizes the importance of niacin. Listeners will learn about traditional nixtamalization and the socio-economic factors fueling this often-overlooked disease, while enjoying light-hearted anecdotes about pets intertwined with serious discussions.

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INSIGHT

Pellagra Overview

Pellagra is a niacin deficiency causing various symptoms, often summarized as the three Ds: dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia.
Without treatment, it can lead to death.

INSIGHT

Niacin Sources

Many foods are rich in niacin, including fish, meats, whole grains, and peanuts.
The body can also synthesize niacin from tryptophan, found in foods like poultry and soybeans.

INSIGHT

Nixtamalization and Niacin

Nixtamalization, a process using alkaline water to prepare corn, makes niacin more digestible.
Indigenous peoples in the Americas used this process, making corn a safe staple food.

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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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