vitamin b1

CAS Number: 59-43-8
Formula: C12-H17-N4-O-S.Cl

It is an essential part of the coenzyme involved in glucose breakdown for energy, and is also essential in the removal of wastes such as lactic and pyruvic acids from exercising muscles. Thiamine has effects on all tissues; the most sensitive are nerves, stomach and heart. Like all B Complex Vitamins, Thiamine is water soluble, so it is quickly in and out of the body. It therefore needs regular supplementation where dietry input will probably not be sufficent. Thiamine requirements are vastly increased where carbohydrates are the major energy source, or where glucose is added to the diet. The body has limited capacity to store Thiamine. Clinical signs of deficiency include fatigue, muscle weakness, loss of appetite, increased heart rate, irritability. Many of these signs can be traced back to increased tissue levels of lactic and pyruvic acids. Nerve cells particularly are dependant on carbohydrate metabolism and normal function is greatly affected by increased levels of these acids. The demand for Thiamine increases with exercise because of its essential role in energy supplies.