Function:
Thiamine (vitamin B1) acts as a catalyst enabling carbohydrates
to release their energy. It also plays a role in the chemical
control of nerve regulation.
Recommended
Dietary Allowance:
For men 1.2 mg and for women 1.1 mg per day.
Deficiency:
Weight loss, short term memory impairment, muscular weakness,
leg cramps, heart failure, and death. Deficiency in "Western"
societies is seen primarily in alcoholics.
Sources:
The
foods with the most thiamine are lean meats, organ meats
(liver, heart, and kidney), brewer's yeast, eggs, leafy
green vegetables, whole cereals, wheat germ, nuts, and legumes.
Widespread enrichment of flour and cereal products has largely
eliminated the risk of thiamine deficiency.
