Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Commonly used for
EnergyNerve Health
Where to Buy
Our experts personally review each product we recommend for quality and cost effectiveness.
The cheapest product is usually low quality, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
The cheapest product is usually low quality, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
What is it? / Overview
Thiamine is essential for carbohydrate metabolism and normal nerve function. Supplementation is highly effective for correcting deficiency and particularly important in people with alcohol use disorder, malnutrition, bariatric surgery, or chronic diuretic use.
How is it used? / Administration
Form: Thiamine hydrochloride (routine); benfotiamine for diabetic neuropathy (higher bioavailability)
Typical dose studied: 50–100 mg/day for deficiency risk; 100–300 mg/day benfotiamine for neuropathy
Timing: With or without food
Thiamine deficiency is a medical emergency when Wernicke encephalopathy is suspected. Benfotiamine may provide greater tissue penetration for neuropathy.
How well does it work? / Evidence
✓ Well-established
Who should avoid it?
Interacts with: Loop diuretics — may increase thiamine requirements
Already taking it? Continue if deficiency risk persists. Reassess dietary intake periodically.
Research & references
Lonsdale D. (2006). Biochemistry and clinical benefits of thiamine. Evidence-Based CAM. Whitfield KC et al. (2018). Thiamine deficiency disorders diagnosis and control. Annals of the NYAS. Kennedy DO. (2016). B vitamins and the brain. Nutrients.
Disclosure: Knozela is a participant in the Amazon Associates affiliate program. Some "Where to buy" links on this page are affiliate links -- if you make a purchase through them, Knozela may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.