Thiamin

Thiamin, also known as vitamin B1, is an essential water-soluble vitamin that is required for the proper function of the body. It is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, and plays a vital role in the production of energy.

Thiamin is found naturally in many foods, including whole grains, meat, fish, and legumes. It is also added to many fortified foods, such as bread, cereals, and pasta, to ensure adequate intake.

In foods, thiamin is commonly used as a food additive, typically as a nutrient supplement. It is added to many processed and packaged foods to help prevent deficiencies in populations with inadequate diets, and is commonly used in infant formula.

Thiamin deficiency can lead to a condition called beriberi, which is characterized by muscle weakness, loss of appetite, and nerve damage. However, excess thiamin intake is generally well-tolerated and is excreted by the body in urine.

Thiamin is readily available in supplement form and is commonly used to treat or prevent thiamin deficiency. It is also used in complementary and alternative medicine to treat a variety of conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease, cataracts, and diabetic neuropathy. However, further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of thiamin supplementation for these purposes.

Foods in the CalorieStar database containing Thiamin