Thiamine deficiency doesn’t happen overnight. It develops gradually and is often misdiagnosed or overlooked. Symptoms such as persistent fatigue, brain fog, and mood swings are common but nonspecific. Some daily habits make the situation worse:
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- Alcohol: Reduces thiamine absorption by half.
- High-temperature cooking: Breaks down thiamine, especially when alkaline substances like sodium bicarbonate are used.
- Caffeine: Available in coffee and tea, acts as a diuretic and contains compounds that interfere with thiamine.
- Raw seafood: Contains enzymes that break down thiamine in the digestive tract.
- Preservatives: Sulfites, used in processed foods and wine, break down thiamine.
Drugs that interfere with thiamine
Some prescription drugs can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb or retain vitamin B1.
- Antacids and proton pump inhibitors: Reduce the stomach acid needed for nutrient absorption.
- Diuretics: Increases the loss of thiamine during urination.
- Metformin: A common diabetes medication that can lower B1 levels over time.
These drugs are important for many patients, but the effect on vitamin absorption is a side effect that deserves attention and is addressed.
How the kidneys are involved
Your kidneys play an important role in maintaining thiamine levels. High blood pressure, often linked to a diet high in sodium and processed foods, can damage your kidneys, thus accelerating the rate of nutritional loss. Early-stage kidney problems often go unnoticed and silently contribute to thiamine deficiency.
Other factors, such as exposure to heavy metals, chronic intestinal problems (like IBS or frequent diarrhea), and even aging (which reduces stomach acid), can impair the body’s ability to absorb or effectively utilize thiamine. ️️ Continue on the next page ️️
