Thiamin, or vitamin B1, found in both plant and animal sources, is a water-soluble vitamin that acts as a co-enzyme in the process of converting glucose into energy and is vital in certain metabolic reactions. For this reason, thiamin is needed when energy expenditure is high, e.g. when exercising. Thiamin assists in the maintenance and correct working of the heart and nervous system and formation and maintenance of red blood cells. Known as “the morale vitamin” because of its relation to a healthy nervous system, thiamin is also linked to improving individual learning capacity. It is necessary for consistent growth in children and for the improvement of muscle tone in the stomach, intestines and heart. Thiamin is essential for stabilising the appetite by improving food assimilation and digestion, particularly of starches, sugar and alcohol.
