Author(s): Corrado Nicklin*
It is now understood that thiamin, generally known as vitamin B1, is essential for the metabolism of energy. It was found as a result of the initial research on the “anti-beriberi factor” present in rice polishing. It took years of investigation after its 1936 synthesis to determine how it worked to treat beriberi, a deadly disease that has been around for thousands of years, especially in societies where rice is a major food source. This article makes reference to the previously documented beriberi symptoms while highlighting how they are distinct from those of pure, experimentally generated thiamine deficiency in human beings. The potential relevance of thiamine deficiency in contemporary nutrition and some of its more peculiar symptoms are highlighted. Its pathophysiology and biochemistry are described, and some of the less frequent diseases linked to thiamine shortage are examined. The information that applies to complementary alternative medicine is developing quickly, and it is essential to grasp the role of thiamine in contemporary nutrition. References are provided that shed light on how this vitamin is used in clinical problems that aren’t typically caused by nutritional deficiencies. The function of all thiamine and its artificial derivatives is addressed. Thiamine is essential for the metabolism of glucose. Thus, emphasis is focused on the idea that consuming too many simple carbs instantly raises the need for this vitamin.
