Also know as Co-enzyme thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP), Vitamin B1 is needed in regular supply by the body and its odor and flavour are similar to those of yeast. It is needed by the Central Nervous System the Gasto-intestinal system and the cardiovascular system. It helps convert carbohydrate to fat for storage for potential energy and plays a role in glucose metabolism. It is thought that adequate amounts of Vit B1 may help reduce the progression of atherosclerosis by preventing the accumulation of fatty deposits in the arteries, thus it is also helpful to the heart.
Deficiency symptoms of Thiamine:
Beri-Beri (childhood, dry and wet forms), edema, weight loss, muscle wasting, nerve degeneration, brain degeneration, Wernicke- Korsakoff syndrome, skin problems, fatigue, instability, prickling sensations in the legs, inflamation of the optic nerve(affecting vision), schizophrenia.
Toxicity symptoms of Thiamine:
When taken orally there have been no known cases of Thiamine toxicity in humans, thiamine injections however have sometimes been associated with edema or trauma.
Food Sources of Vitamin B1:
Wheat germ, bran, rice husks (unpolished rice), outer husks of other grains, blackstrap molasses, oats millet, spinach, cauliflower, some nuts, sunflower seeds, peas, beans, avocado, pork, some dry fruits contain B1 but the sulphur dioxide which is sometimes added as preservative can destroy this vitamin.