Wizard of Vitamins

Vitamin B1 Vitamin

What is Vitamin B1?

Vitamin B1 is is a water-soluble vitamin needed to process carbohydrates, fat, and protein. Every cell of the body requires vitamin B1 to form the fuel the body runs on adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Nerve cells require vitamin B1 in order to function normally.

Vitamin B1 in Diets

Wheat germ, whole wheat, peas, beans, enriched flour, fish, peanuts, and meat are all good sources of vitamin B1.

Vitamin B1 Medicinal Treatments

Anemia (for genetic thiamine-responsive anemia) Alzheimer’s disease Canker sores Childhood intelligence (for deficiency) Dialysis (for encephalopathy and neurologic damage; take only under medical supervision) Hepatitis Low back pain (in combination with vitamin B6 and vitamin B12) Type 1 diabetes Type 2 diabetes Cardiomyopathy (only for wet beri beri) Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) Fibromyalgia HIV support Multiple sclerosis Pre- and post-surgery health

Known Consequences of Vitamin B1 Deficiency

A decline in vitamin B1 levels occurs with age, irrespective of medical condition. Deficiency is most commonly found in alcoholics, people with malabsorption conditions, and those eating a very poor diet. It is also common in children with congenital heart disease. People with chronic fatigue syndrome may also be deficient in vitamin B1. Individuals undergoing regular kidney dialysis may develop severe vitamin B1 deficiency, which can result in potentially fatal complications. Persons receiving dialysis should discuss the need for vitamin B1 supplementation with their physician.

Vitamin B1 Recommended Dosages

While the ideal intake is uncertain, one study reported the healthiest people consumed more than 9 mg per day. The amount found in many multivitamin supplements (20–25 mg) is more than adequate for most people. Vitamin B1 is nontoxic, even in very high amounts.

Vitamin B1 Side Effects

Vitamin B1 works hand in hand with vitamin B2 and vitamin B3. Therefore, nutritionists usually suggest that vitamin B1 be taken as part of a B-complex vitamin or other multivitamin supplement. Certain medicines may interact with vitamin B1. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.