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Nutritional deficiencies in homeless persons with problematic drinking: a systematic review
Sharea Ijaz1,2, Joni Jackson3,4, Helen Thorley3,4
1The National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West), University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, 9th Floor Whitefriars, Lewins Mead, Bristol, BS1 2NT, UK. s.ijaz@bristol.ac.uk.
Homeless individuals with alcohol problems often suffer from nutritional deficiencies, particularly in vitamin C and thiamine (vitamin B1). This review highlights the need for better-quality research to guide public health interventions for this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Excessive alcohol consumption in homeless populations is linked to malnutrition and health issues.
- Understanding nutritional deficiencies is crucial for addressing health disparities in this group.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing evidence on nutritional deficiencies in homeless individuals with problem drinking.
- To identify commonly deficient nutrients in this population.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search of scientific and grey literature sources was conducted.
- Studies reporting nutritional deficiencies (blood or urine measures) in homeless problem drinkers were included.
- Data were extracted and summarized narratively, with study quality assessed.
Main Results:
- Nine studies reported on nutritional deficiencies, with data spanning from the 1950s to 2013.
- Common deficiencies included vitamin B1 (thiamine) and vitamin C.
- Other reported deficiencies involved vitamins B2, B6, B9, B12, A, E, haemoglobin, and albumin.
Conclusions:
- Limited and low-quality evidence suggests significant deficiencies in vitamin C and thiamine among homeless heavy drinkers.
- Further high-quality research is essential to inform effective public health strategies.
- Addressing nutritional deficits is a key component of improving health outcomes for this population.
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