Vitamin B1 is one of the components of the Vitamin B complex. Also known as thiamine, Vitamin B1 plays a very important role in both physical, as well as mental health. As with all vitamins, Vitamin B1 should be taken in the correct dose. Taking too much can prove to be just as harmful as having a deficit.

In the body, Vitamin B1 works to convert carbohydrates into energy. It is also vital to the nervous system, heart, and muscles. Thiamine also provides benefits to the brain, as it aids in the ability to focus, as well as the ability to concentrate.

Vitamin B1 deficiency is usually associated with several symptoms. These include pain or numbness in the extremities, weak muscles, and lack of coordination. Thiamine deficiency can cause the heart to enlarge, and can lead to heart failure. Lung congestion, nerve damage, drain damage, and death have also been associated with a thiamine deficiency. There are mental symptoms as well. These include psychosis, chronic fatigue, and overall confusion.

Despite having access to all of this knowledge, many people fail to get the recommended dose of Vitamin B1 that they need each day. Alcoholics in particular will need supplements, as alcohol destroys the existing Vitamin B1 that is in the system. Other illness, such as those that produce nausea and diarrhea, can also deplete the levels of vitamins in the system. Vitamin B1 should be replenished in the system on a daily basis.

Supplements are an excellent way to replenish vitamins in the body. For many, use of vitamin supplements are the only way to ensure that the proper level of vitamins are introduced into the body each day. Vitamin B1 can have side effects of it's own. It is important to take this supplement as intended. Higher doses should only be taken at the advice of a physician. Additionally, it is important to keep all vitamin supplements in a place where children do not have access to them.