Vitamins play an important role in metabolic processes, act as antioxidants, and aid the immune system. The body can absorb them from food, synthesize them from food, or, for example, produce them under the influence of sunlight (in the case of vitamin D).

Thiamine

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is essential for the body’s energy supply, the functioning of the heart muscle, and the nervous system. It ensures that carbohydrates can be converted into energy for the body. Some claim that this vitamin could help with mosquito bites; however, this has never been scientifically proven.

Diet

Vitamin B1 is present in animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy products. Additionally, it is found in bread, whole grain products, potatoes, vegetables, legumes, and nuts. In grains, it is present in whole grains because it is found in the bran. his is removed in the production process of white flour and the polishing of brown rice to white rice. It is water-soluble and sensitive to heat and sunlight. Approximately 10-25% is lost during baking or frying due to its heat sensitivity. Because of its water-soluble nature, vitamin B1 will dissolve in the water in which you cook your vegetables and be lost with the cooking liquid when you drain the vegetables.

Deficiency

A deficiency can lead to depression, concentration problems, memory loss, numbness in the legs, and heart problems. Deficiency is more common in specific risk groups such as alcoholics and drug addicts, as well as in individuals with gastrointestinal disorders.

Excess

If too much thiamine is ingested, the intestines will only absorb a small portion. If an excess does occur, it will be excreted from the body through urine. There are no known negative health effects from prolonged high intake of vitamin B1.

If you would like to learn more about your vitamin status, consider booking a Vitamins & Minerals, Total Health or PME comprehensive test.

Sources

• Voedingscentrum: Vitamines. Available at https://www.voedingscentrum.nl/encyclopedie/vitamines.aspx
• Informatiecentrum voedingssupplementen & gezondheid: Vitamine B1 (thiamine). Available at https://www.ivg-info.nl/voedingssupplementen/vitamines/vitamine-b1-thiamine/