Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)

Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)
It is a water soluble vitamin, widely available in foods and is also produced synthetically. A well balanced diet provides enough Thiamin but in alcoholic patients, alcohol impairs the absorption of Thiamin and leads to deficiency.
Action
Thiamin plays an important role in converting blood sugar into energy. It keeps the mucus membrane healthy and keeps the organs working properly. Physician prescribes Thiamin supplements for the treatment of beri-beri and for alcoholics.
Recommended Dose
Male- 1.4 mg
Female-1.1 mg
Pregnant woman- 1.5 mg
Breast feeding mothers- 1.5 mg
Infants -0.5 mg
Children – 0.7 mg to 1.2 mg per day
Sources
As the body is not able to store Thiamin, it is essential to replenish daily. The best sources are whole grain cereals, rice bran, dried sunflower seeds, soy beans, meat, pork and fish.
Side effects
It is rare. Sometimes drowsiness, allergic reaction and anaphylactic shock may happen due to overdose of Thiamin.