Vitamin B1

What Is Vitamin B1?

Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, is a water-soluble B-vitamin that plays a critical role in converting the food you eat into energy. It is essential for maintaining proper function of the nervous system, heart, muscles, and brain—organs that demand a steady, efficient energy supply. As a key player in carbohydrate metabolism, Vitamin B1 helps the body transform glucose into ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy currency used by every cell. Thiamine is naturally found in foods such as whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, pork, and fortified cereals. In supplements, it commonly appears as thiamine hydrochloride or benfotiamine—both of which are effective at raising thiamine levels in the body, with benfotiamine offering enhanced bioavailability. Since Vitamin B1 is water-soluble and not stored in significant quantities, it must be replenished regularly through diet or supplementation.

At the cellular level, Vitamin B1 functions as a coenzyme for multiple metabolic pathways, especially in the mitochondria—the energy-producing engines of the cells. Without sufficient thiamine, energy production slows down, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, irritability, and reduced physical performance. A more severe deficiency can lead to conditions such as beriberi, which affects the cardiovascular and nervous systems, or Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a serious neurological disorder often associated with chronic alcohol use. Beyond energy metabolism, Vitamin B1 plays an essential role in supporting nervous system health. It aids in the transmission of nerve impulses and contributes to the synthesis of neurotransmitters that regulate mood, cognition, and coordination. Thiamine is especially valuable during periods of mental strain, recovery from illness, or high-stress workloads, as it helps maintain mental clarity and emotional balance.

Recent research has also highlighted thiamine’s influence on immune health. It contributes to the proper function of white blood cells and supports the body’s ability to respond to inflammation and infection. This immune-modulating role is especially important during recovery from illness or in cases of chronic fatigue, where mitochondrial performance and immune efficiency are closely linked. Thiamine deficiency may be more common than expected, especially in individuals who consume high-sugar diets, face chronic stress, or take medications that deplete thiamine levels (such as diuretics or certain antibiotics). Alcohol consumption also interferes with thiamine absorption and utilization, increasing the risk of deficiency. Because thiamine is quickly used up and excreted in urine, daily intake is essential to maintain optimal levels.

At NATURIQ, we include bioavailable forms of Vitamin B1 in our wellness formulations to support daily energy, focus, and nervous system balance. Thiamine helps fuel your body at the cellular level, so you can meet each day with clarity, stamina, and resilience. In summary, Vitamin B1 is a foundational nutrient that supports energy metabolism, neurological function, and immune strength. Whether you’re managing a high-performance lifestyle or simply looking to feel more energized and focused, thiamine is a daily essential for staying balanced and capable.