(Vitamin B1)
Description
Thiamine, the first B vitamin discovered, is essential for energy production, particularly in the heart and brain. Severe thiamine deficiency can cause beriberi, characterized by mental confusion, muscle wasting, and heart disturbances.
Health Benefits
- Energy production: Critical for energy production and cardiovascular health.
- Support for congestive heart failure (CHF): Supplementation is important for those taking furosemide or digoxin, improving cardiac output.
Available Forms
- Thiamine hydrochloride, mononitrate, and thiamine pyrophosphate: Available in most nutritional supplements.
Dosage
- General health: 50–100 mg daily.
- CHF or diuretic use: 200–240 mg daily.