Vitamin B1 or thiamin is needed to convert carbohydrates into energy and keep your body and mind in good shape, it is present in many foods but, like all the B vitamins, is easily lost from the body because it is water-soluble.
How it works
B1 Vitamin is essential for converting food into energy and for the transmission of electrical signals in the nerves and muscles. It also has an important role in the formation of red blood cells and a number of digestive processes.
Known as the ‘morale vitamin’, thiamin is crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system and can have a powerful effect on your mood and alertness.
Deficiency Symptoms
- weakness and muscle pains Irritability
- numbness and prickling in legs Water retention
- nausea and stomach pains
- poor concentration
Remedies
Mind and emotion – Probably the main use of B1 vitamin supplements is for treating mood disorders. Studies have shown that people with a high thiamin intake are less likely to suffer from low self- esteem and depression. It can also help to alleviate sleeping problems.
Concentration and alertness – Thiamin has been found to be beneficial in boosting memory and mental agility, especially in older people.
Alcoholism – it can help to relieve the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. It is also needed to replace thiamin that has been lost through alcohol abuse.
Energy booster – it can increase energy levels and lower blood pressure, improving all-round health.
Vitamin supplements
Multivitamin tablets usually contain 1.4mg of Vitamin B1(Thiamin), which is sufficient for an average person to stay healthy and avoid deficiency.
People who need to raise their level of alertness or improve their mood can take up to 50mg for medicinal purposes. An increased amount of thiamin is most effective when taken as part of a B-complex supplement.
B1 Vitamin is easily destroyed by alcohol, caffeine and stress.Pregnant women, smokers, heavy drinkers and those who eat a lot of carbohydrates may need to take a supplement.
Please visit the author’s website for comprehensive information on B1 vitamin and supplements.
