Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in the body's metabolism. It is essential for the conversion of carbohydrates into energy and is also involved in the functioning of the nervous system.
Thiamine is commonly found in a variety of foods, including:
Vitamin B1 has several important functions in the body:
A deficiency of vitamin B1 can lead to a condition known as beriberi, which is characterized by symptoms such as:
Severe and prolonged deficiency of thiamine can result in neurological and cardiovascular complications.
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin B1 varies by age and gender. As a general guideline, the RDA for thiamine is:
Here are some key points to remember about vitamin B1 for your study guide: