There exist several types of vitamin B. Thiamine mononitrate is also known as vitamin B1. It helps in the metabolism of amino acid, improves heart health and also enhances the functioning of brain and nervous system. Let us find out more about this compound in the following article.
Thiamin or thiamine is a type of vitamin B. Thiamine mononitrate is commonly referred to as vitamin B1. This form of vitamin B is known as ‘aneurin’ in Europe and the UK. It is the nitrate salt form of thiamine and it is present in various multivitamins. The chemical formula that describes this element is C12H17N5O4S. Its molecular weight is 327.36. It comes in the form of white-yellowish, water soluble, crystal powder.
Uses of Thiamine
Human body needs thiamine mononitrate or simply thiamine, for converting carbohydrates into energy. This vitamin is readily thrown out of human body through urine. Hence, you need to consume it everyday. It offers various health benefits. Thiamine is one of the vitamins belonging to the group of B complex vitamins. It is present in the outer layers of grains and in the germ which are unfortunately removed during polishing or refining processes. In the U.S., manufacturers are expected to fortify processed flour with vitamin B1 along with other vitamins, since the vitamin is lost during processing.
Thiamine is required for various chemical reactions taking place in your body. It helps burn carbohydrates, proteins and fats. It plays an important role in metabolism of amino acids. Thus it helps maintain normal metabolism in your body. It is absolutely essential for proper functioning of brain and nervous system. Thiamine strengthens your heart muscles and thus improves heart health. Those who rely on carbohydrates as main source of energy need to consume more thiamine.
In human body, thiamine in the form of Thiamin Pyrophosphate (TPP) is produced with the help of bacteria in large intestine. Another form of this vitamin, Thiamine Diphosphate (TDP) is present in red blood cells. Every cell in your body needs thiamine for producing energy. It is required for blood formation and production of hydrochloric acid, which is essential for digestion of food.
Since thiamine enhances blood circulation, it helps improve brain function and cognitive acuity. It keeps the mucous membranes healthy. It improves your appetite, digestive health and stamina by boosting energy levels. It is good for heart, muscles, intestines, blood, in fact for every organ. It can delay aging, and can cancel the damaging effects of alcohol consumption, smoking and pollution. Improvement in glucose tolerance can be noticed after consuming sufficient amounts of thiamine. This vitamin also helps prevent arterial blockages especially for diabetics.
Thiamine Deficiency
Several medical conditions like beriberi, peripheral neuritis associated with pellagra, and neuritis during pregnancy are related to thiamine deficiency. Thiamine mononitrate supplements are prescribed to overcome its deficiency. Thiamine is also used to treat poor appetite, ulcerative colitis, and diarrhea. It has been found effective in treatment of AIDS since it helps boost immune system. Thiamine helps relieve diabetic pain, and it helps prevent vision problems like cataract and glaucoma. It prevents progression of kidney diseases in people with type 2 diabetes. It is sometimes used to treat memory loss due to aging.
Thiamine prevents memory loss and enhances learning abilities. It is used to treat depression, Wernicke’s encephalopathy syndrome and also coma of unknown origin. It is believed that it helps prevent cervical cancer. It is prescribed for motion sickness, cerebellar syndrome, canker sores. People who need to improve their athletic performance, take thiamine supplements. It not only increases energy, but also helps fight stress and maintain mental balance.
Food that Contain Thiamine
Yeast, pork and beef contain significant amounts of thiamine. Cereal grains that are available everywhere throughout the year, are one of the important dietary sources of thiamine. Oatmeal, flaxseed, sunflower seeds, raisins, brown rice, whole grain rye, asparagus, kale, beans, peanuts, cauliflower, baked potatoes, oranges, liver (beef, pork and chicken), beef kidneys, salmon steak, fortified flour, breads, cereals and eggs are some other thiamine rich foods.
A healthy diet helps avoid vitamin deficiency. Before opting for any vitamin supplements, you should consult your physician. Let the physician determine the exact dose of the supplement after assessing your overall health; as it helps minimize the side effects of the supplement.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
