Vitamin B1

Definition

Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for energy metabolism and nerve function. It plays a crucial role in converting carbohydrates into energy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Vitamin B1 deficiency can lead to neurological disorders such as Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
2. Thiamine is vital for the proper functioning of the nervous system and cognitive health.
3. Alcoholism is a major risk factor for Vitamin B1 deficiency.
4. Adequate thiamine levels are necessary for neurotransmitter synthesis and nerve impulse conduction.
5. Whole grains, legumes, nuts, and pork are good dietary sources of Vitamin B1.

Review Questions

• What neurological disorder is commonly associated with Vitamin B1 deficiency?
• Which food sources are rich in thiamine?
• Why is Vitamin B1 essential for cognitive health?

Related terms

Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome:

A neurological condition often caused by severe thiamine deficiency, characterized by confusion, memory loss, and coordination problems.

Neurotransmitter: Chemical substances that transmit nerve impulses across synapses.

Energy Metabolism: The process by which the body converts food into energy, involving vitamins like thiamine.