The B Vitamins
Known also as vitamin B complex, these are fragile, water-soluble substances, several of which are particularly important to
carbohydrate metabolism.
Vitamin B1-Thiamine
Thiamine, or vitamin B1, a colorless, crystalline substance, acts as a catalyst in
carbohydrate metabolism, enabling pyruvic acid to be absorbed and carbohydrates to release
their energy. Thiamine also plays a role in the synthesis of nerve-regulating substances. Deficiency in thiamine causes beriberi, which is characterized by muscular weakness, swelling of the heart, andleg cramps and may, in severe cases,
lead to heart failure and death. Many foods contain thiamine, but few supply it in concentrated amounts. Foods richest in thiamine are
pork, organ meats (liver, heart, and kidney), brewer's yeast, lean meats, eggs, leafy green vegetables, whole or enriched cereals, wheat
germ, berries, nuts, and legumes. Milling of cereal removes those portions of the grain richest in thiamine; consequently, white flour and
polished white rice may be lacking in the vitamin. Widespread enrichment of flour and cereal products has largely eliminated the risk of
thiamine deficiency, although it still occurs today in nutritionally deficient alcoholics. Next: Vitamin B2
I say stop wasting
money…get healthier…and possibly extend your life span. The benefits of each of the 76 different
supplements are explained in great detail at the Xtendlife website. Visit their site and learn more. With no exaggeration, it
could be the best thing that you ever do for your health.
MENU
Vitamin A
Vitamin B1-Thiamine
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B3 - Niacin
Vitamin B6 - Pyridoxine
Vitamin B12 - Cobalamin
Other B Vitamins
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
"Vitamin," Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2005
http://encarta.msn.com © 1997-2005 Microsoft Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
|