Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, helps your body turn the carbohydrates in food into energy your brain, nerves and heart can use. It contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, the normal function of the nervous system and heart, and to normal psychological function – which is why it's so often associated with focus and everyday energy.
Because thiamine is water-soluble, your body doesn't store it, so you need a steady daily supply through food or supplements. It's found in a wide range of everyday foods – pork, wholegrains, fortified cereals, nuts, peas, beans and fish among them – and it's accessible on a plant-based diet too. Most people meet the recommended daily amount through diet alone, but certain lifestyle factors and circumstances can increase the amount you need.
