Vitamin B1: for strong nerves and energy

The water-soluble vitaminThiaminereceived the designationVitamin B1because it was the first compound of the vitamin B group that could be isolated by scientists. The body hasonly a very small storage capacityfor vitamin B1, so a regular intake of this vitamin is necessary to avoid deficiency symptoms.

Vitamin B1occurs only in a few foods in large quantitiesand is unfortunately completely missing in many foods that we frequently eat (e.g. in industrial sugar, white flour, peeled rice, oils, fats). Since thiamine is a water-soluble and heat-sensitive vitamin, further thiamine losses occur when vegetables are washed and cooked.

What are the functions of vitamin B1?

The main function of vitamin B1 is that of a coenzyme. Without its coenzyme, an enzyme cannot function. Vitamin B1, for example, supports enzymes of theCarbohydrate metabolismand is therefore suitable for bothEnergy generationfrom carbohydrates and sugar as well as for theEnergy storagerequired. It is also involved in the formation of fatty acids and cholesterol.

Vitamin B1 also ensures that ourAnnoycommunicate properly with each other, because it is up toNerve transmissioninvolved.

Vitamin B1 is also important for the muscles and for theHeart. Vitamin B1 is also needed for elevated blood glucose levels, as can occur in poorly controlledDiabetes mellituscan occur. Because thiamine canprotect against the development of late diabetic complications.

Use of vitamin B1

An additional intake of thiamine or vitamin B1 as a dietary supplement, for example in the form of capsules or tablets, is recommended forDeficiency: e.g. due to alcoholism, digestive and absorption disorders and liver dysfunction.

In addition, vitamin B1 supplements help with increased needsduring pregnancy and breastfeeding as well as in dialysis patients.

Which foods contain vitamin B1?

Significant amounts of vitamin B1 are found in whole grain products, legumes, unpolished brown rice, corn, potatoes, mushrooms, peas, zucchini, fennel, fish, offal and muscle meat.

Am I lacking vitamin B1?

A high consumption ofAlcohol, coffee and teadeteriorates the thiamine supply. Intensive physical training, fever, stress, burns,Hyperthyroidism, liver disease and pubertal growth of adolescents increase the need for thiamine.Drug consumption, which is often necessary in cases of chronic or serious illnesses, but also when taking theBirth control pillsYou should pay particular attention to ensuring you have an adequate supply of thiamine, otherwise a deficiency situation may arise.

If just one of the following applies, your supply of vitamin B1 could be too low:

* Do you eat too few whole grains and legumes?

* Do you drink alcohol regularly?

* Do you eat a very one-sided diet?

* Do you drink excessive amounts of coffee and tea?