For the first day of the new year, we dive into what is considered the first proposed vitamin, vitamin B1 also called thiamine.

This episode goes in-depth on the critical role thiamine plays in our bodies, and its necessary presence in adequate amounts for producing ATP, our cellular energy currency. In this episode, I go over the often-overlooked connection between carbohydrate intake and thiamine needs, and the consequences that can follow when this vitamin is in short supply.

When thiamine levels drop, it's not just our energy that's at risk – our brain health also might hang in the balance. I dive into the neurological consequences of thiamine deficiency (and even a sustained state of inadequacy...) like the development of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a two-part disorder that is usually, although not exclusively associated with chronic alcohol dependency. I will also consider thiamine's [or lack thereof] potential links to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Other brain responses to a marginal thiamine shortage, include adaptations that could lead to reduced appetite and anorexic behavior. The theoretical rationale will be provided in this episode.

As I round out the episode, I go over the groups most vulnerable to this nutrient shortfall. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, I will confront the silent epidemic of thiamine deficiency that has been suggested by many to be hiding behind very common symptoms or metabolic disorders. I will tackle what has been suggested now by several researchers, that less thiamine availability and bodily activity may not be because we aren’t taking in enough thiamine, but because we might be overexposing ourselves to anti-thiamine factors present all around us (dietary choices, lifestyle choices, medication use, etc.).

Join me in for this episode where I do my best to achieve adequate thiamine status and arm you with actionable insights and preventative strategies to safeguard your nutrient status.

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