Thiamin is a water-soluble vitamin, also known as Vitamin B1. It’s found in various food sources including cereals, bread, rice, tortillas, pork and beef liver.

The major use of this vitamin in the human body is to convert carbohydrates into energy – one of the primary reasons for bodybuilders and athletes to have thiamin supplements as part of their diet.

Reported Effects

1) Provides energy for the body.

2) Prevents cardiovascular diseases.

3) Promotes normal functioning of muscle and heart.

Reported effects include:

Releases energy for the body – Vitamin B1 is essential for the human body to break down carbohydrate compounds into energy particles. Increased levels of thiamin is therefore recommended for individuals who perform strenuous workouts, especially during bodybuilding and other demanding physical activities.

Promotes normal functioning of the nervous system – Thiamin is a good aid for proper functioning of the nervous cells in the body. Supplementing with this vitamin has been known to increase one’s reaction time and reflex ability as well.

Regulates appetite – Thiamin supplements are widely used in the diet scene because it promotes the production of required energy and therefore reduces the craving for additional food. Thiamin controls body weight by regulating the appetite.

Promotes normal functioning of muscle and heart cells – Vitamin B1 is known to support sufficient energy flow to the muscle and heart cells thereby reducing the effects of heavy physical activities and ensuring proper circulation of blood in the body.

Bodybuilders and athletes widely use thiamin to get the necessary energy required for the various activities, including weight training.

Promotes mood and memory power – One of the key benefits of Vitamin B1 intake is the enhanced mood and memory power. Thiamin induces production of acetylcholine which in turn improves the ability to think and remember effectively.

Prevents cardiovascular diseases – Lack of thiamin in the human body may result in beriberi which in turn may lead to cardiovascular disease. Supplements containing Vitamin B1 are therefore recommended to prevent such health problems.

Promotes other health benefits – Proper intake of thiamin in the diet has been reported to be effective for maintenance of muscle mass and strength, recovery from fatigue, prevention of depression, and others.

Possible Dangers

There are no reported side effects or health issues when including thiamin supplements in the diet. However, there is sufficient evidence pertaining to various possible dangers due to lack of this vitamin supplement in the human body.

FDA Approved?

Thiamin has been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and approved as the most effective metabolic precursor.

Studies

Some clinical studies have suggested that thiamin is an effective supplement for everyone, especially for people who perform excessive physical activities, such as bodybuilding, weightlifting, and sports.

A study conducted in 1980 reported that thiamin is highly essential for people who suffer from various painful sensations. By this they mean the feeling of “pins and needles,” feeling of numbness, etc.

Some studies in the late 70s also reported that this vitamin supplement may be essential for people who experience muscle tenderness and fatigue especially after strenuous physical exercises.

Other clinical studies have provided evidence on the catabolic activities of thiamin in the human body. As per these studies, thiamin, being a water-soluble substance, can be taken in excess, and the human body can easily utilize the excess amount for breaking carbohydrates to form energy.

Other research has also suggested that thiamin has the ability to interact with the neurotransmitters of the brain and therefore promotes mood and increases intelligence.

Supplements using this ingredient:

1. NOW B-100 Caps

Conclusion

Thiamin is considered to be the most effective metabolic precursor in the human body and promotes various internal function required for normal well-being.

Bodybuilders and weightlifters can take supplements of Vitamin B1 to support improved performance of their muscle cells and prevent various potential diseases that may be caused by its deficiency.

Thiamin is the primary ingredient in many commercial products along with another important element known as methylcobalamin.