vitamin B1


Also indexed as
Thiamin, Thiamine
Introduction
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.
Where is it found?
Wheat germ,
whole wheat, peas, beans, enriched flour, fish, peanuts, and meat are all good sources of vitamin B1.
Vitamin B1 has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):Science Ratings - Health Concerns*** - 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
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
** - Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
* - For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.
Who is likely to be deficient?
A decline in vitamin B1 levels occurs with age, irrespective of medical condition.1 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.2 People with chronic fatigue syndrome may also be deficient in vitamin B1.3 4 Individuals undergoing regular kidney dialysis may develop severe vitamin B1 deficiency, which can result in potentially fatal complications.5 Persons receiving dialysis should discuss the need for vitamin B1 supplementation with their physician.
How much is usually taken?
While the ideal intake is uncertain, one study reported the healthiest people consumed more than 9 mg per day.6 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.

Are there any side effects or interactions?
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.

Drug Interactions
Certain medicines interact with
vitamin B1: Some interactions may increase the need for vitamin B1 (+), other interactions may be negative (-) and indicate vitamin B1 should not be taken without first speaking with your physician or pharmacist, others may require further explanation (?). Refer to the individual drug article for specific details about an interaction.
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. To find a specific brand name, use the
Medicines index.Loop Diuretics (+)Oral Contraceptives (+)Stavudine (+)Tricyclic Antidepressants (+)