Vitamin b1 benefits
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Benefits of Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Introduction to Vitamin B1
Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for human health. It plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes and is necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system, heart, and muscles . Thiamine cannot be stored in the body, so it must be consumed regularly through diet .
Role in Metabolism and Energy Production
Thiamine is a key coenzyme in metabolic pathways, particularly those involved in energy production. It helps in the conversion of carbohydrates into energy, which is vital for the proper functioning of cells . This role is critical not only for humans but also for plants, where thiamine is involved in carbon assimilation and respiration .
Nervous System Health
Vitamin B1 is essential for the normal function of the nervous system. Deficiency in thiamine can lead to severe neurological disorders such as beriberi, which affects the central nervous and circulatory systems . Thiamine deficiency can also cause neuroinflammation, T cell infiltration, and overexpression of proinflammatory cytokines, leading to neuronal death .
Immune System Support
Thiamine has significant anti-inflammatory properties and influences various immune responses. It affects pro-apoptotic proteins, mitochondrial membrane potential, and suppresses oxidative stress-induced NF-kappaB . These properties help in reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system .
Plant Health and Disease Resistance
In plants, thiamine is not only crucial for metabolic processes but also plays a role in disease resistance. Thiamine treatment in plants induces systemic acquired resistance (SAR), enhancing their ability to resist fungal, bacterial, and viral infections . This property is beneficial for improving crop yield and food security 13.
Eye and Brain Function
Thiamine is necessary for the normal function of the visual system and brain. It enables the normal use of glucose and other carbohydrates, providing energy to these critical organs . Deficiency in thiamine can lead to visual and cognitive impairments, highlighting its importance in maintaining eye and brain health .
Growth and Development in Animals
Studies on juvenile golden pompano have shown that dietary vitamin B1 significantly improves growth performance, intestinal digestion, and immune response . This indicates that thiamine is essential for the growth and development of animals, further emphasizing its broad biological importance .
Conclusion
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is a vital nutrient with diverse roles in human health, plant health, and animal growth. Its importance in energy production, nervous system function, immune support, and disease resistance underscores the need for adequate dietary intake. Ensuring sufficient thiamine consumption can prevent deficiencies and support overall health and well-being.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic