Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Vitamin B1, also known as Thiamine, plays a crucial role in energy metabolism by converting nutrients into energy, and it is vital for the functioning of nerves, muscles, and the heart. It is commonly found in whole grains, pork, seeds, and nuts, and is also added to fortified breads, cereals, and pasta. Thiamine is essential for the proper functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems and for cognitive abilities, including memory and concentration. Adults are recommended to intake about 1.1 to 1.2 mg daily. A deficiency in Thiamine can lead to beriberi, a condition characterized by weight loss, emotional disturbances, impaired sensory perception, weakness, pain in the limbs, and irregular heart rate. On the other hand, excessive doses can cause symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and allergic reactions. An interesting fact about Vitamin B1 is that beriberi, caused by its deficiency, was one of the first diseases to be linked to a nutritional deficiency.
