Thiamine, or Vitamin Bl, is important for nervous system function, musculature and cardiovascular health, as Well as for normal growth and development. The essential coenzyme also aids in metabolizing carbohydrates, and it helps to regulate the appetite. Can be lost in cooking and food preparation so supplements are advised:
Important for: Enhancing the body’s ability to generate energy through the metabolic cycle; digestion of carbohydrates due to increased production of hydrochloric acid; muscle tone in the intestines, heart and lungs; optimizing brain functions; growth.
Sources : The richest sources are; brown rice; chicken; egg yolks; fish; liver; peanuts; pork; wheat germ; and whole grains.
Additional sources include; asparagus; broccoli; Brussels sprouts; kelp; nuts; oatmeal; plums; prunes: raisins; and watercress.
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Herbs (e.g. alfalfa; bladder-wrack; burdock root; cayenne; chamomile; fennel; fenugreek; hops; nettles; parsley; peppermint; raspberry leaf; rosehips; and sage).
Possible deficiency symptoms : Loss of appetite; constipation; fatigue; irritability; insomnia; forgetfulness; difficulty breathing; heart and gastrointestinal problems; poor co-ordination and concentration; weight loss.
Hinders maximum absorption: Antibiotics, oral contraceptives and diuretics, such as tea and coffee, may decrease the level of thiamine in the body.
Additional Information: High carbohydrate diets need increased amount of thiamine.
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Thiamine acts as an antioxidant, protecting against aging, alcohol and smoking.