Additionally whole grain and enriched cereal and bread products are a superior source of thiamin in the diet. Even though it is so important to proper functioning of the human organism, thiamin deficiency does occur. Severe thiamin deficiency often occurs in individuals who have depression. Symptoms of deficiency may include fatigue, nausea, confusion, abdominal pain, headache beriberi. Beriberi is a condition which affects the nerves, brain and heart and its symptoms are as varied as tingling and burning in the legs to incoordination, mental disturbance, palpitation and even heart failure.
Beriberi can also cause seizures, deterioration of the central nervous system and vomiting.
Another disorder related to thiamin deficiency is Wernicke s syndrome which will eventually result in severe memory loss, dementia, and even paralysis of the eye muscles. Recommended intakes of thiamin vary, but the common agreement among professionals seems to be between .5 to 25 milligrams daily. Of course, before starting any form of supplementation you should consult your health care practitioner. Learn more about thiamin and its essential function in the human body. Inc. PageWise makes no representations about the content published on this site.