Description

Function

• Energy Production: Thiamine is crucial for carbohydrate metabolism. It helps convert carbohydrates into energy by acting as a coenzyme in the Krebs cycle and glycolysis.
• Nervous System Support: It is essential for maintaining the health of the nervous system. Deficiency can lead to neurological disorders such as Wernicke’s encephalopathy.
• Cardiovascular Health: Thiamine helps prevent cardiovascular issues related to deficiency, such as beriberi.
• Antioxidant Properties: Thiamine can act as an antioxidant, scavenging reactive oxygen species and protecting cells from oxidative damage.

Application

• Medical Treatment:

Deficiency Management: Used to treat and prevent thiamine deficiency, including conditions like beriberi and Wernicke’s encephalopathy.

Supportive Therapy: Helps manage metabolic disorders in genetic diseases like Leigh’s disease and maple syrup urine disease.

• Nutritional Supplementation:

Dietary Supplements: Often included in multivitamins and supplements to ensure adequate intake.

Special Populations: Recommended for individuals with poor dietary intake, malabsorption issues, or alcoholism.

• Other Uses:

Pain Management: May help relieve pain by affecting neurotransmitter activity.

Potential Cognitive Benefits: Studied for its potential role in improving cognitive function in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.