Vitamin B1 or Thiamin

Vitamin B1 or Thiamin has beneficial effects on your nervous system and on your mental attitude (it optimizes brain function and alertness). Therefore it is also known as the "Morale Vitamin".

Vitamin B1 (V-B1) helps the body break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

It converts blood sugars into glucose, it improves your blood, assists in blood formation, carbohydrate metabolism and digestion.

It further plays a key role in generating energy, it acts an anti-oxidant to protect your body from the negative effects of aging, and it helps prevent depression and alleviates fatigue.

VB-1 is used to treat poor blood circulation, forgetfulness, irritability and tingling sensations and numbness of the hands and feet.

Without VB-1 your body would not produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), being the body’s main source of fuel, which your heart in particular relies on.

Since the B vitamins are water soluble, they must continuously be replenished. Excess vitamin B is not stored and is eliminated via the urine.

Deficiency effect

A symptom of a V-B1 deficiency is a condition called Beriberi; the symptoms are rapid heartbeat, nerve trouble, mental confusion and muscles that gradually begin to waste away.

A deficiency of V-B1 can also lead to insomnia, mental depression, constipation, loss of appetite, vague aches & pains and heart & gastrointestinal problems.

Foods high in Vitamin B1

The best naturally-occurring sources of V-B1 are found in beef liver, brewer’s yeast and kidneys.

V-B1 is also found in whole grain cereals, pork, peanuts, oysters, oranges, raisins, peas, kidney beans and fish.

The required daily intake of V-B1 has not yet been determined. Most experts agree that an intake of 1.5 mg each day is sufficient.

Please note that consuming excessive amounts of alcohol inhibits the body's ability to properly absorb this vitamin.