Vitamin B1, or thiamine, performs numerous functions in the body. Thiamine enhances circulation and assists in blood formation, carbohydrate metabolism, as well as the production of hydrochloric acid, which is necessary for proper digestion. Vit B1 is also necessary for optimum cognitive activity and brain function. It also aids the body with energy, growth, normal appetite, and learning capacity. Thiamine is also necessary for proper muscle tone in the intestines, stomach, and heart. It also works effectively as an antioxidant, which protects the body from the degenerative effects of aging, alcohol consumption, and smoking.
One of the effects of thiamine deficiency is Beriberi, which is a nervous system disease. It is rare in developed nations. Other symptoms which can be caused by a deficiency of vit B1 are constipation, edema (swelling of the extremeties), enlarged liver, fatigue, forgetfulness, gastrointestinal problems, heart changes, irritability, labored breathing, loss of appetite, atrophy of the muscles, nervousness, numbness in the hands or feet, poor coordination, tingling sensations, weak and sore muscles, general weakness, and severe weight loss.
The normal supplemental dosage for vit B1, or thiamine, is 150 to 600 mg daily. Any questions or concerns regarding this should be directed to your doctor or a qualified healthcare practitioner.
The richest sources of vit B1, or thiamine, are brown rice, egg yolks, fish, legumes, liver, peanuts, peas, pork, poultry, rice bran, wheat germ, and whole grains. Other sources include asparagus, brewer's yeast, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, dulse, kelp, most nuts, oatmeal, plums, dried prunes, raisins, spirulina, and watercress.
Herbs that contain vit B1 include alfalfa, bladderwrack, burdock root, catnip, cayenne, chamomile, chickweed, eyebright, fennel seed, fenugreek, hops, nettle, oat straw, parsley, peppermint, raspberry leaf, red clover, rose hips, sage, yarrow, and yellow dock
Antibiotics, phenytoin (Dilantin, a drug used to prevent seizures), sulfa drugs, and oral contraceptives can all reduce thiamine levels in the body. Heavy alcohol or caffeine consumption may also have this effect. In fact, alcoholics are among those most often deficient in thiamine, because the alcohol inhibits the body's ability to store it. This sometimes manifests as a disorder called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which is characterized by memory problems, abnormal movements, confusion, drowsiness, as well as other symptoms.
This information is not intended to diagnose or treat any specific condition, nor is it intended to replace the advice of your healthcare professional.
Sources
Balch, Phyllis A., CNC. "Prescription for Nutritional Healing". Garden City, NY.: Avery Publishing Group, 2006
Ritchason, Jack, ND. "The Little Herb Encyclopedia". Pleasant Grove, UT.: Woodland Health Books, 1995
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