Thiamine, or vitamin B1, is essential for converting carbohydrates and fats into energy, nerve and muscle function, and brain health. It cannot be stored in the body and is found in a variety of foods. Deficiencies can lead to serious diseases like beriberi.
Thiamine, also known as thiamine or aberic acid, belongs to the group of B vitamins. Scientifically, it is considered to be vitamin B1, but most vitamin suppliers identify it by name on its packaging. Thiamine was one of the last vitamins to be discovered, and it was not properly identified and classified until 1935.
Without thiamine, the body cannot convert carbohydrates into energy. It is also necessary to process fats into energy for immediate use, which is why many weight loss techniques emphasize the importance of a good thiamine intake. It is also important for the functioning of nerves, muscle cells, and the brain. This vitamin aids in the production of ATP or muscle fuel, especially important in athletes and those working on muscle development.
Because thiamine cannot be stored in the body, it must be consumed daily for a person to maintain optimal health. B1 is essential for the normal development of learning ability, and was used for a few years in a controversial trial to treat patients with autism. It is especially important for those who smoke or consume alcohol, since the vitamin acts as an antioxidant, protecting the organs against the damaging effects of these and other substances.
Thiamine can be found in a variety of foods, from spinach to beef. Most types of beans are high in B1, but navy and pinto beans are especially nutritious. Most breads and cereals sold in the United States are now fortified with this vitamin, which means that deficiencies are rare, even in underdeveloped countries around the world. When taken as a supplement, thiamine is best consumed along with the other B vitamins, as they are best metabolized by the body when ingested immediately.
Chronic alcoholism can cause thiamine deficiency and lead to beriberi, a serious disease of the nervous system. It causes emotional and physical disturbances and difficulty walking, and can lead to heart failure. Beriberi was common in the 19th century, but is now rarely seen in non-alcoholics.
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