Thiamine is essential for every tissue in the body. Thiamine is a cofactor for many enzymatic reactions in the skeletal muscles, heart, brain and kidney.

Functions and benefits

The body requires vitamin B1 in order to make ATP which is the body’s main energy carrying molecule. Thiamine assists in the conversion of energy so the body can keep the metabolism running smoothly.

Vitamin B1 is also suggested to help strengthen the immune system and improve the body’s ability to withstand stressful conditions.

Thiamine is also vital for the proper functioning of the digestive system. Vitamin B1 assists the regulation of hydrochloric acid which is needed for maintaining a healthy digestive function. 

References

Said HM. Thiamin. In: Coates PM, Betz JM, Blackman MR, et al., eds. Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements. 2nd ed. London and New York: Informa Healthcare; 2010:748-5

Bettendorff L. Thiamin. In: Erdman JW, Macdonald IA, Zeisel SH, eds. Present Knowledge in Nutrition. 10th ed. Washington, DC: Wiley-Blackwell; 2012:261-79.

Lonsdale, D. (2006). A Review of the Biochemistry, Metabolism and Clinical Benefits of Thiamin(e) and Its Derivatives. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med, 3(1).

Pletsityi, A., D. (1979). Changes in activity of some mechanisms of specific and nonspecific immunity in vitamin B1 deficiency. Microbiology and Immunology, 88.

Levin, G., L., Mal’tsev, G., L., Gapparov, M., M. (1978). Effect of Thiamine Deficiency in Hydrochloric Acid Secretion in the Stomach. Vopr Pitan, 8(5).