VITAMIN B1

Vitamin B1

Vitamin B1 blood test is done in all age groups mainly to identify if there is a deficiency of this particular vitamin type which may result in a rare illness likeBeriBerior other health issues.

Thiamine, or vitamin B1, is involved in a number of functions in the body, including the muscular functioning (electrolyte flow in these cells),nervous system (axonal conduction), enzymatic processes,carbohydrate metabolism, and production of hydrochloric acid needed vitally for digestion.Low levels of thiamine reflect poor nutritional status, or inadequate oral intake, while high levels suggest excessive intake or absorption issues.

Causes:

• Alcoholism
• Malnutrition
• Malabsorption (eg, chronic diarrhea)
• Dieting
• Renal dialysis
• Poor nutritional status on parenteral glucose (TPN)
• Bariatric weight-loss surgery
• Long-term diuretic therapy due to urinary losses
• Prolonged hyperemesis gravidarum or anorexia in women
• Good sources of Vitamin B1 include cereals, whole grains, potatoes, pork, seafood, nuts, and legumes.

Symptoms

• Irritability
• Skin rash
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet

Sores on the lips or in the mouth.