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Similar to the other B Complex vitamins, vitamin B1 is a
water-soluble vitamin that the body uses to process carbohydrates,
fat, and proteins. The body also uses vitamin B1 to produce
adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the fuel the body uses to run
essential processes. It may also enhance circulation, help with
blood formation, and other metabolic processes.
It is natural
to experience a decline in vitamin B1 levels as you get older, even
without any special medical conditions. Other than old age, those
suffering from vitamin B1 deficiency include alcoholics, individuals
with malabsorption conditions, and those with a very poor diet.
Vitamin B1 deficiency is also common in children with congenital
heart disease and people with chronic fatigue syndrome. Individuals
that have regular kidney dialysis may also develop severe vitamin B1
deficiency, which can be life threatening. If you are on kidney
dialysis, discuss with your doctor the need to for vitamin B1
Deficiency.
Dosage and
Administration
Vitamin B1 works best when taken in
combination with vitamin B2 and vitamin B3. Consequently, most
nutritionists usually recommend that vitamin B1 be taken as part of
a B-complex vitamin or other multivitamin supplement.
While
the optimal intake of vitamin B1 alone is not known, some
researchers and physicians recommend 9 mg per day. The amount found
in many multivitamin supplements (approximately 20–25 mg) is more
than adequate for most people.
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