Knowing About Vitamin B1
By Sam Cyrus

Vitamin B1, also called thiamine, is one of eight water-soluble vitamin B complex. The vitanin B1 is non toxic and widely available in the diet. This vitamin is essential for the metabolism of carbohydrates (to produce energy) and for normal nerve and heart function. The vitamin B1 is considered an "anti-stress" vitamin because it is believed to enhance the activity of the immune system and improve the body's ability to withstand stressful conditions.

Vitamin B1 is found in both plants and animals. The best sources of vitamin B1 are wheat germ, pork, whole & enriched grains, dried beans and seafood. This vitamin plays a crucial role in certain metabolic reactions, particularly, as mentioned, the conversion of carbohydrates (starches) into energy. For example, it is essential during exercise, when energy expenditure is high.

Vitamin B1 deficiency often occurs with other vitamin B deficiencies. It may result from a deficiency in the diet. People whose diet consists mainly of highly processed carbohydrates (such as polished white rice, white flour, and white sugar) are at risk of thiamin deficiency. Polishing rice removes almost all of the vitamins. Alcoholics, who often substitute alcohol for food and thus do not consume enough vitamin B1, are at high risk of developing this deficiency.

The vitamin B1 deficiency may also result from disorders or conditions that increase the body's need for vitamin B1. Examples are thyroid disorders, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fever. Liver disorders may interfere with the processing (metabolism) of the vitamin.

The vitamin B1 deficiency is rare, but tends to occur in people who get most of their calories from sugar or alcohol. Individuals with vitamin B1 deficiency have difficulty digesting carbohydrates. As a result, a substance called pyruvic acid builds up in the bloodstream, causing a loss of mental alertness, difficulty breathing, and heart damage. In general, vitamin B1 supplements are primarily used to treat this deficiency known as beriberi.