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Vitamina B1

Also known as: Thiamine, Vitamin B1, Aneurin

Overview

Thiamine, also known as Vitamin B1, is a water-soluble vitamin crucial for carbohydrate metabolism and neural function. It is naturally found in foods like whole grains, legumes, nuts, and pork. Thiamine plays a vital role in preventing and treating thiamine deficiency, which can lead to conditions such as beriberi and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. It is also being studied for potential benefits in metabolic disorders and neurological conditions. As a cofactor for several enzymes, thiamine is essential for energy production and neurotransmitter synthesis. It is sensitive to heat and alkaline conditions, which can affect its stability in food. Research on thiamine is moderately mature, with growing evidence supporting its role in various health outcomes, particularly in critical care settings. The available evidence includes systematic reviews and meta-analyses, although some studies have limitations regarding sample size and methodology. Thiamine is absorbed in the intestines, and its bioavailability can be influenced by factors like food composition and gastrointestinal health.

Benefits

Thiamine supplementation has shown promise in several key areas. It has been associated with improved symptoms in peripheral neuropathy (PN). A meta-analysis indicated a significant improvement in symptoms with thiamine treatment. Thiamine supplementation has also demonstrated a protective effect against increased serum creatinine levels in ICU patients, particularly those over 60 years old. Furthermore, a systematic review suggested an inverse association between dietary thiamine intake and the risk of depression. Thiamine is particularly beneficial for individuals with metabolic stress, such as those in intensive care or with diabetes, where deficiency risks are heightened. The effect sizes for thiamine's impact on renal outcomes and neuropathy symptoms indicate clinical relevance, although further studies are needed to confirm these findings. Benefits from thiamine supplementation can be observed relatively quickly, particularly in acute settings like ICU admissions.

How it works

Thiamine functions primarily as a cofactor for enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, notably pyruvate dehydrogenase and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase. These enzymes are critical for converting carbohydrates into energy. Thiamine plays a vital role in energy metabolism and is essential for proper neuronal function, influencing both glucose metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis. It acts on enzymes that facilitate the conversion of carbohydrates into energy, impacting metabolic pathways in the brain and peripheral tissues. Thiamine is absorbed in the intestines, and its bioavailability can be affected by factors such as food composition and gastrointestinal health.

Side effects

Thiamine is generally considered safe, with low toxicity even at high doses. Common side effects are rare, but some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions. Uncommon side effects, reported in 1-5% of cases, include headaches and irritability. Severe allergic reactions are extremely rare (less than 1%). Thiamine may interact with certain diuretics and medications that affect its absorption. There are no significant contraindications for thiamine supplementation. Pregnant and lactating women may require higher thiamine intake, and individuals with chronic alcoholism are at increased risk for deficiency. While thiamine is safe for most, individuals should consult healthcare providers before starting supplementation, especially if they have underlying health conditions.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose for thiamine supplementation is typically around 100 mg per day for adults, particularly in cases of deficiency. Doses of 100-300 mg per day are commonly used in clinical settings, especially for patients in critical care. There is no established upper limit for thiamine, but doses above 500 mg should be monitored. Thiamine can be taken at any time of day, but consistent daily intake is crucial for maintaining adequate levels. Thiamine is available in various forms, including thiamine hydrochloride and thiamine mononitrate, both of which are effective. Absorption can be enhanced with food, particularly carbohydrates. No specific cofactors are required for thiamine absorption, but its metabolism may be influenced by other B vitamins.

FAQs

Is thiamine safe?

Thiamine is widely regarded as safe for most populations, including pregnant and breastfeeding women. However, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation, especially with high doses or underlying health conditions.

When should I take thiamine?

Thiamine can be taken at any time of day. Regular daily intake is recommended for optimal benefits and to maintain adequate levels in the body. Consistency is key for effectiveness.

What benefits can I expect from thiamine?

Users may experience improvements in energy levels, mood, and neurological function, particularly if they have a deficiency. It supports overall metabolic health and nerve function.

Is thiamine only for people with severe deficiencies?

No, thiamine supplementation can also benefit individuals under metabolic stress, such as those in intensive care or with diabetes, even if they don't have a severe deficiency.

Are there any side effects of taking thiamine?

Thiamine is generally well-tolerated. Rarely, some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions. High doses should be approached with caution.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33912967/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 observational studies found an inverse association between dietary thiamine intake and depression risk. The pooled relative risk was 0.69 for the highest versus lowest intake categories, suggesting that higher thiamine intake may be associated with a lower risk of depression. However, the authors note that the observational nature of the included studies limits the ability to establish causation.
https://tnsroindia.org.in/JOURNAL/issue85/ISSUE%2085%20-%20AUG%202024%20-%20FULL%20TEXT%20PART%2003.pdf – This study investigates the role of thiamine in various health conditions. It highlights thiamine's importance in metabolic processes and its potential therapeutic applications. The research suggests that adequate thiamine levels are crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing deficiency-related disorders.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ene.14786 – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effect of thiamine treatment on peripheral neuropathy. The analysis of three studies showed a significant association between thiamine treatment and symptom improvement in peripheral neuropathy, with an odds ratio of 5.34. The authors acknowledge variability in study designs and populations, highlighting the need for more robust trials to confirm these findings.
https://www.dlsu.edu.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Food-Nutrition-and-Health.pdf – This resource provides an overview of food, nutrition, and health, including the role of thiamine. It emphasizes the importance of thiamine in maintaining overall health and preventing deficiency-related disorders. The document highlights the need for adequate thiamine intake through diet and supplementation when necessary.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37553224/ – This meta-analysis of 8 studies investigated the effects of thiamine supplementation in ICU patients. The study found that thiamine supplementation significantly reduced serum creatinine levels in ICU patients but did not affect lactate levels or mortality. The authors note the limited number of studies and call for further high-quality trials to confirm these findings.