SP
StackPedia
All Supplements

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

vitamins

Thiamine is an essential water-soluble B vitamin crucial for converting carbohydrates into energy and supporting nervous system function. It plays a vital role in nerve signal transmission, muscle contraction, and brain development.

Benefits

Energy metabolism support
Nervous system health
Heart function
Cognitive performance
Muscle maintenance

Dosage

Typical Dose

1.1-1.2 mg daily for adults

Upper Limit

50 mg daily (no established upper limit)

Timing

With meals to enhance absorption

Forms & Bioavailability

Thiamine Hydrochloride

Standard form with good oral absorption; most common supplement type

Thiamine Mononitrate

Stable form resistant to degradation; slightly lower absorption than hydrochloride

Benfotiamine

Fat-soluble form with superior absorption and bioavailability compared to standard forms

Side Effects

Excessive doses may cause headaches
Tingling or numbness in extremities (rare)
Nausea or upset stomach at very high doses

Interactions

Reduced absorption with alcohol consumption
Dialysis may deplete thiamine levels
Loop diuretics can decrease thiamine retention

Research Summary

Thiamine deficiency is well-documented to cause beriberi and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, particularly in alcoholics and populations with poor nutrition. Clinical research supports thiamine supplementation for treating deficiency-related conditions and maintaining optimal energy metabolism. Evidence for supplementation beyond correcting deficiency in healthy individuals remains limited.

Where to Buy Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

We recommend buying from reputable retailers. Check reviews and third-party testing.

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medication.