Vitamin B1

Stand: 10. November 2026 Brain & nerves

Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, is a water-soluble vitamin from the B-complex group. It plays a central role in energy metabolism, especially in the utilization of carbohydrates, and is important for the normal function of the nervous system.

Since the body can store only limited amounts of vitamin B1, regular intake through the diet is important. Good sources include whole-grain products, legumes, nuts, and pork.

Steckbrief

Name
Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
Kind
Water-soluble vitamin (B complex)
Reference intake (EU)
1.1 mg per day
Good dietary sources
Whole grains, legumes, nuts, pork
Functional areas
Energy metabolism, nervous system, heart

Wirkung und Studienlage

Several health-related claims are authorized in the EU for vitamin B1. Vitamin B1 (thiamine) contributes to:

  • normal energy-yielding metabolism
  • normal functioning of the nervous system
  • normal psychological function
  • normal function of the heart

Due to its role in the nervous system and energy metabolism, thiamine is considered, among other things, in the context of phases of increased demand. A pronounced deficiency is rare with a balanced diet, but can occur, for example, with an unbalanced diet or increased requirements, manifesting in a variety of non-specific symptoms.

Anwendung und Dosierung

Vitamin B1 is available as a single-ingredient supplement, as part of a vitamin B complex, or in combination with other nutrients. The EU reference intake for daily consumption is 1.1 mg. Since thiamine is water-soluble, excess amounts are largely excreted.

For most people, a balanced diet meets daily requirements. Targeted supplementation is primarily useful during times of increased need or inadequate intake. Follow the recommended daily intake indicated on the respective product.

Sicherheit und Wechselwirkungen

Vitamin B1 is considered very well tolerated. Because it is water-soluble, excess thiamine is excreted via the kidneys, meaning that an oversupply through food or conventional supplements practically does not occur.

As with all food supplements, they are not a substitute for a balanced diet. In the case of persistent symptoms that could indicate a deficiency, medical clarification is advisable rather than untargeted self-supplementation.

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Häufige Fragen

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, normal functioning of the nervous system, normal psychological function, and normal heart function.

Good sources include whole-grain products, legumes, nuts, sunflower seeds, and pork. Since thiamine is stored only in limited amounts, regular intake is advisable.

This is practically not the case. Vitamin B1 is water-soluble, and excess amounts are excreted through the kidneys.

Fachliche Prüfung

Prof. Dr. med. Dr. phil. Martin Hörning

Arzt, Professor i.R. und Mitbegründer von sanitas

Seit 40 Jahren beschäftigt er sich intensiv mit den Themen Prävention, Gesundheitsförderung, Achtsamkeit, Longevity und Naturheilverfahren. In Herstelle führt er eine kleine Privatpraxis.