B-Group Vitamins and their importance

Vitamin B1 is more commonly referred to as Thiamine now. It is a vital member of this group of vitamins. However Thiamine is destroyed by the heat applied in cooking. Especially when vegetable are cooked in excess water which is thrown away later. Addition of sodium carbonate or cooking soda further enhances this loss.

Thiamine helps in promoting growth, protects the heart muscle and stimulates brain operations. The normal functioning of the nervous system is regulated by thiamine. It helps in digestion, especially of carbohydrates. However thiamine has a mild diueritic effect: Formation of urine increases. It's other benefits are:

1. Prevents constipation and helps in improving peristalsis.
2. Helps in maintaining the normal red blood cells count.
3. Improves circulation.
4. Improves healthy skin.
5. Protects against the harmful effects of lead poisoning.
6. Prevents oedema or fluid retention, which causes heart disorders.
7. Reduces fatigue, improves stamina, and also increases mental alertness which prevents premature ageing and senility.

However like other vitamins it is more effective when combined with other B vitamins instead of being consumed separately.

Values per 100g edible portions