Vitamin B1 (thiamin or thiamine) belongs to a family of water-soluble vitamins known as the B-complex vitamins. The functions of the individual B vitamins are closely related. The body stores enough vitamin B1 to last for about 1-2 weeks. Excess B1 is filtered by the kidneys and excreted in the urine.

Functions of vitamin B1 include:

• An essential part of the coenzyme system for carbohydrate metabolism
• For proper functioning of the nervous and cardiovascular system
• Necessary for energy production
• Prevention of beriberi
• Stimulation of the appetite