What it is Thiamine was the first vitamin to be studied in detail. It was found that the disease beriberi in people eating polished rice was prevented by adding rice bran back to the diet. Another name given to the vitamin was aneurin. What it does Thiamine forms an essential part of several enzyme systems. These mainly involve the release of energy from absorbed or stored carbohydrates and fats.
Enzymes are responsible for each of the chemical changes.
It also seems to have a direct role in the activity of the nervous system, stimulating peripheral nerves. Last updated 15 Aug 2000 Deficiency symptoms Any shortfall in supplies of thiamine influences energy availability . Amongst the early signs of deficiency are muscle weakness and cramp . The nervous system is also affected, and progressive thiamine deficiency often leads to paralysis. There may also be heart failure, internal haemorrhages or changes in heart rhythms.