Vitamin B1, or Thiamine, is one of the eight B vitamins that are essential for the body. They enable the body to convert carbohydrates into glucose that in turn is used for energy production in order to carry out a variety of bodily functions.

So, what are the uses of Thiamine? Why does one need Thiamine in the body and what effects does it have? OROGOLD brings you this guide with eight ways that Thiamine helps the body to maintain good health:

• Production of energy – As already mentioned above, Vitamin B1 helps the body convert glucose into energy. This is its principal function. It does so by oxidizing sugar for the production of energy which in turn ensures proper functioning of organs like the brain, kidneys, heart and lungs. Thiamine also plays a vital role in the production erythrocytes or red blood cells, which helps individuals stay healthy and fit.
• Immunity booster – Thiamine strengthens the body’s immune system, thereby enabling it to withstand stressful conditions. It is also referred to as the anti-stress vitamin. Thiamine supplements have been used in the treatment of some AIDS patients and those suffering from alcoholism, according to WebMD.
• Good cardiovascular health – Vitamin B1 produces acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, which relays messages to the nerves and muscles. Thiamine deficiency can cause an irregular heartbeat, while severe deficiency can lead to congestive heart failure.
• Proper brain functioning – Thiamine helps in the improvement of memory and concentration, thereby enabling the brain to function smoothly. The vitamin has been used to slow down the progression of multiple sclerosis successfully and Alzheimer’s Disease, also in the treatment of Cerebellar Syndrome as per reports by organicfacts.net. A new research shows that Viatmin B1 deficiency can lead to a fatal disorder of the brain that mimics dementia, also other neurological conditions.
• Healthy eyes – If you are looking for healthy eyes, it’s Vitamin B1 that you are after. Vitamin B1 helps keep the eyes healthy by working in conjunction with the essential fatty acids Omega-1 and Omega-6. It also helps in the prevention of cataracts. According to WebMD, Thiamine supplements have been used to treat glaucoma and cataracts.
• Protection of nerves – Everybody needs protection of nerves. A sufficient amount of Thiamine helps strengthen the myelin sheath, which form the protective covering of nerves, thereby ensuring proper nerve functioning. Deficiency of Vitamin B1 can cause weakening and degeneration of the myelin sheath. This can lead to nerve damage and death, contributing to nerve disorders like Bells Palsy and MS.
• Anti-aging – Vitamin B1 works as a powerful antioxidant to prevent the occurrence of age spots and wrinkles, with its anti-aging properties.
• Proper functioning of the digestive system – Thiamine facilitates the breakdown of food substances and digestion, by helping the body to secrete hydrochloric acid. Vitamin B1 has been used in the treatment of persistent diarrhea and ulcerative colitis, according to WebMD reports. It also helps maintain the muscle tone of the walls along the digestive tract.