Vitamin B1

Vitamin B1 is also known as thiamine and thiamin.

What does Vitamin B1 do?

Vitamin B1 is needed to process carbohydrates, fat, and protein. Every cell of the body requires vitamin B1 to form ATP—the fuel the body runs on. Nerve cells require vitamin B1 in order to function normally.

Where is Vitamin B1 found?

Wheat germ, whole wheat, peas, beans, so-called enriched flour, fish, peanuts, and meat are all good sources of vitamin B1.

Who is likely to be deficient?

Deficiency is most commonly found in alcoholics, people with malabsorption conditions, and those eating a very poor diet.

How much is usually taken?

While ideal levels are somewhat uncertain, one study reports that the healthiest people eat more than 9 mg per day. The amount found in many multivitamin supplements (20–25 mg) is more than adequate.