Symptoms of vitamin B1 overdose

Vitamin B1, or thiamine, supports normal cell function and helps your body convert food into energy. Symptoms of thiamine overdose are unlikely to occur, as this vitamin will be excreted in the urine when consumed in excess. On the other hand, a vitamin B1 deficiency can be much more harmful.
An overdose of thiamine does not cause toxicity. In fact, there is no upper limit for this vitamin. Read on to learn more about how to safely add more vitamin B1 to your diet.
The role of vitamin B1
B complex vitamins play a key role in energy production and metabolism. Some promote growth and development, while others support the formation of red blood cells, keep your brain alert, or act as coenzymes in various biochemical reactions. Thiamine helps your body process nutrients in food and use them for fuel. It regulates glucose metabolism and supports immune function.
The human body can store about 25 to 30 milligrams (mg) of thiamine, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health. About 80% of this amount is stored as thiamine diphosphate and helps your body metabolize fats, carbohydrates and amino acids.
Vitamin B1 also supports normal brain function. This is why low levels of this nutrient in the blood can lead to dementia, memory problems, apathy, fatigue and behavioral changes, among other symptoms. Your brain needs thiamine to transmit nerve signals and function properly.
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, the recommended daily intake of thiamine is 1.1 mg for women and 1.2 mg for men. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should aim for around 1.4 mg per day.
Side effects of vitamin B1
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, thiamine overdose is unlikely to cause side effects. If you consume too much, the excess will be eliminated in the urine. There is no upper limit for vitamin B1 and doses up to 50 mg appear safe.
According to the National Library of Medicine, side effects of oral thiamine could potentially include the following:
- Rinsing
- Itch
- Hustle
- Urticaria
- Sweating
- Weakness
- Nausea
Other sources of vitamin B1
The symptoms of vitamin B1 deficiency are much more serious than those associated with a possible thiamine overdose. But fortunately, thiamine deficiency is rare. Most foods contain varying doses of this vitamin. Whole grains, legumes, fish, seafood and meat are just a few examples.
Fortified breakfast cereals, for example, provide 100 percent of the daily value of thiamine, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. If you’re looking for low-carb options, stock up on tuna, steak, mussels and yogurt. Be careful, cooking and processing can reduce thiamine levels in foods.
If you still want to try supplements, talk to your doctor before adding them to your daily intake.
Who is at risk of vitamin B1 deficiency?
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, the following people are at highest risk for thiamine deficiency:
- Elderly
- Those who depend on alcohol
- People living with HIV/AIDS
- People with diabetes
- Those who have undergone bariatric surgery
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/VWH-GettyImages-2170846566-6f3c0e69096049f3ac10412aca56c80b.jpg?w=390&resize=390,220&ssl=1)



:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Health-GettyImages-1203392811-d7b532109ae648f29c53dd079b53f8ae.jpg?w=390&resize=390,220&ssl=1)