Thiamine

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Thiamine, also called vitamin B1, a substance that enables carbohydrates in the body to release the energy required for cellular function, known as metabolism. Thiamine also plays a vital role in the activities of enzymes, proteins that are involved in bodily processes such as digestion. Good sources of thiamine include wheat germ, dry beans, peas, enriched cereals and breads, pasta, nuts, eggs, and most vegetables. Lean pork is one of the best sources of the vitamin, as are organ meats, such as liver.

Thiamine deficiency is a risk for the elderly, for people of all ages who participate in strenuous exercise, and for those who are severely ill. A severe lack of thiamine causes the vitamin-deficiency disease known as beriberi, a neurological and cardiovascular disorder characterized by muscular weakness, swelling of the heart, leg cramps, and, in severe cases, heart failure and death. Thiamine deficiency in severe alcoholics (a result of malnutrition) may lead to a central nervous system condition known as Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which can cause paralysis of the eye muscles, extreme memory loss, and dementia.

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