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Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Overview
Alternative Names: Thiamin, Vitamin B1 or Vitamin B-1.
Thiamine is an antioxidant nutrient that helps the body to inhibit the formation of the damaging free radicals. Vitamin B1 chelates heavy metals such as lead. It is effective in the treatment of uneven heartbeat, low blood pressure and chest pain.
Deficiency may arise from lack of gastric acid. Beriberi, the deficiency disease associated with inadequate thiamin intake, was first described in 1630 by the Dutch physician Bontius. The use of polished rice and white flours as staples have lead to mild, but chronic deficiencies of thiamin; even in certain populations in the United States (especially alcoholics). Source
The best sources include brewer's yeast, rice husks (the part removed to make polished rice), wheatgerm, sunflower and sesame seeds, peanuts, millet, grain husks, meat products, vegetables. Vitamin B1 is destroyed by heat, sugar, alcohol, smoking. Function
Thiamine functions as a cofactor for several enzymes in the form of thiamine triphosphate (TPP). TPP is also involved in a non-coenzymatic role in neuronal cells where it modulates chloride channels. Directions
There is an absolute requirement for thiamin in the daily diet and the US RDA has set this at 1.5 mg. Thiamin is official in the U.S.P.
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Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) can help with the following:
KEY | | May do some good |  | | Likely to help |  | | Highly recommended |
GLOSSARY
Acetylcholine
A neurotransmitter widely distributed in body tissues with a primary function of mediating synaptic activity of the nervous system and skeletal muscles.
Antioxidant (Antioxidants)
A chemical compound that slows or prevents oxygen from reacting with other compounds. Antioxidants are substances that protect cells from oxidative damage caused by molecules called free radicals. These chemicals can damage important parts of cells, such as proteins, membranes, and DNA. Some antioxidants have been shown to have cancer-protecting potential because they neutralize free radicals. Examples include vitamins C and E, beta carotene, the minerals selenium and germanium, superoxide dismutase (SOD), coenzyme Q10, catalase, and some amino acids.
Chronic (Chronicity)
Usually referring to chronic illness: Illness extending over a long period of time.
Cofactor (Cofactors)
A substance that acts with another substance to bring about certain effects, often a coenzyme.
Cramp (Cramping, Cramps)
A sudden, involuntary, painful muscular contraction.
Enzymes (Enzyme)
Specific protein catalysts produced by the cells that are crucial in chemical reactions and in building up or synthesizing most compounds in the body. Each enzyme performs a specific function without itself being consumed. For example, the digestive enzyme amylase acts on carbohydrates in foods to break them down.
Free Radical (Free Radicals)
A free radical is an atom or group of atoms that has at least one unpaired electron. Because another element can easily pick up this free electron and cause a chemical reaction, these free radicals can effect dramatic and destructive changes in the body. Free radicals are activated in heated and rancid oils and by radiation in the atmosphere, among other things.
Gastric
Of, relating to, or associated with the stomach.
Liver (Hepatic)
The largest and one of the most complex organs of the body, the liver is responsible for much of the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. It is the site of much of the body's detoxification. It is connected very closely with digestion and the regulation of blood sugar, among many other functions. Found behind the ribs on the right side of the abdomen, it has many important functions such as removing harmful material from the blood, making enzymes and bile that help digest food, and converting food into substances needed for life and growth. Hepatic: Pertaining to the liver.
Menstruation (Menses, Menstrual, Menstrual Cycle, Menstrual Cycles, Menstrual Flow, Menstrual Phase, Monthly Cycle)
The periodic discharge of blood, tissue fluid and mucus from the endometrium (lining of the uterus) that usually lasts from 3 - 5 days. It is caused by a sudden reduction in estrogens and progesterone.
Milligram (mg, Milligrams)
0.001 or a thousandth of a gram.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system, causing patches of sclerosis (plaques) in the brain and spinal cord, manifested by loss of normal neurological functions, e.g. muscle weakness, loss of vision, and mood alterations.
RDA (RDAs, US RDA, USRDA)
Recommended Daily Allowance of vitamins or other nutrients as determined by the FDA. U.S. RDAs are more widely used than RDAs, and focus on 3 age groups: Infants of 0-12 months; Children of 1-4 years; Adults and children of more than 4 years.
Thiamine (B1, B-1, Thiamin, Vitamin B1)
A B-complex vitamin that acts as a coenzyme necessary for the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose, which is burned in the body for energy. It is essential for the functioning of the nervous system.
Yeast
A single-cell organism that may cause infection in the mouth, vagina, gastrointestinal tract, and any or all bodily parts. Common yeast infections include candidiasis and thrush.
Last updated: Jul 20, 2010
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