Vitamin B1 takes care of the burning of carbohydrates from our food, thus giving us energy. In addition, it ensures a proper functioning of the nervous system and heart. Vitamin B1 also affects our mood. Vitamin B1 is part of the vitamin B complex.
Source
Important sources of vitamin B1 are grain (products) and pork. It is also found in potatoes, vegetables, legumes, nuts, soybeans, brown rice, milk and milk products.
Effect
- Forms, along with magnesium, a co-enzyme which is essential for the production of energy from carbohydrates. It thus supports organs that depend on carbohydrates for their energy production, such as brain, muscles, heart and nerves.
- Has a beneficial effect on the heart.
- Plays an important role in the functioning of the nervous system, because it can support the transfer of impulses between cells, for example in muscles.
- Plays a role in the development of hormones, proteins and enzymes.
- Good for memory, concentration and mood.
Shortage
The disease beriberi is caused by a shortage of vitamin B1. In addition, mental disorders can occur, such as depression, difficulty concentrating and memory loss, numbness in the legs, heart problems and permanent damage to the nervous system.
Overdose
There are no known adverse effects of a high intake of vitamin B1. Whoever receives more vitamin B1 than he or she needs, pees out the surplus.
Considerations
- Of vitamin B1 in the diet, a portion is lost during cooking, partly because this water-soluble vitamin is discarded with the cooking liquid. This can be partially avoided by not cutting vegetables too small and cook them in as little water as possible.
- This vitamin is sensitive to heat and oxidation.
- Vitamin B1 is poorly resistant to ultraviolet light (such as sunlight) and gamma radiation.
