Thiamin (Vitamin B1) is a water-soluble vitamin. A water-soluble vitamin is a vitamin that is used by the body right away instead of being stored. Through food, thiamin is absorbed in the small intestine. Thiamin is cleared quickly in the body and therefore requires a continuous supply from the diet. Water soluble vitamins that are not needed by your body will be passed out through your urine.
What role does Vitamin B1/Thiamin play in the body?
- Necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids.
- Supports the function of the nervous system.
- Antioxidant potential.
- Promotes heart health.
- Promotes brain health.
Daily Vitamin B1/Thiamin Requirements for Adults
- 1.2mg daily for men.
- 1.1mg daily for non-pregnant women.
Food Sources of Vitamin B1/Thiamin:
- Rice
- Barley
- Pasta
- Whole wheat breads
- Fortified Cereals
- Pork
- Beef
- Seafood
- Chicken
- Eggs
- Dairy
- Barley
- Corn
- Beans
- Peas
- Sunflower Seeds
- Acorn squash
- Yeast
Vitamin B1/Thiamin deficiency can be dangerous and presents in various ways.
Early Stages:
- Weight loss
- Anorexia
- Confusion
- Short term memory loss
- Heart enlargement
- Muscle weakness
Severe Deficiency Syndromes:
Beriberi:
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Congestive heart failure
- Lower extremity edema
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome:
- Wernicke encephalopathy which is a life-threatening peripheral neuropathy usually presents first and will then progress to Korsakoff’s psychosis. Korsakoff’s psychosis presents as significant short-term memory loss, confabulation and disorientation.
Who is at risk for Vitamin B1/Thiamine Deficiency?
- Chronic alcoholics
- Older adults
- AIDS/HIV patients
- People with malabsorption syndromes
- People who have undergone a gastric bypass
- Diabetics
- People taking Lasix
As you can see, Vitamin B1/Thiamin deficiency can be dangerous to your health. Ensuring a balanced diet will help you obtain the necessary amounts. With so many options to choose from, obtaining enough on a daily basis is possible!
This article is for information only and is not medical advice. Prior to starting any new diet or supplement always consult your treating physician.
Wondering what your vitamin levels are? Check out Rootine.
References:
Uptodate.com. Overview of water-soluble vitamins. Pazirandeh et al. September 01, 2020.
National Institutes of Health. Thiamin. Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Thiamin-HealthProfessional/
Mayoclinic.com. Thiamin. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-thiamin/art-20366430
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