| Nutritional Reference Value (NRV)* | Maximum Daily Intake** |
| 50mg/day (4-10 years) 100mg/day (11 years and older) | Maximum Daily Dose of Benfotiamin *** |
| 4-10 years: Not recommended for use. 11 years and older: 25 mg/day. | 4-10 years: Not recommended for use. 11 years and older: 25 mg/day. |
* BRD indicates the recommended daily intake. Amounts below this may be insufficient for effective intake.
** Maximum Daily Intake refers to the highest amount of the supplement that can be taken daily. This dose is determined to prevent health risks and it is recommended not to exceed it. For example, excessive intake of some vitamins and minerals can lead to toxic or undesirable effects.
*** Information about Benfotiamin is provided below in the Vitamin B1 Forms section.
Approved Health Claims
- Thiamine (vitamin B1) contributes to normal energy metabolism.
- Thiamine plays a particularly important role in carbohydrate metabolism. It facilitates the breakdown and utilization of carbohydrates in the body. Therefore, the need for thiamine increases in high-carbohydrate diets. When thiamine is deficient, even if enough food is consumed, the body will have difficulty converting food into energy due to the lack of thiamine. This can lead to fatigue and weakness.
- Thiamine (vitamin B1) contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system.
- Thiamine contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system by supporting energy production, facilitating communication between nerve cells, and maintaining myelin integrity. Its deficiency directly leads to nervous system disorders.
- Thiamine (vitamin B1) contributes to the normal function of the heart.
- Thiamine (vitamin B1) contributes to the normal function of the heart by supporting energy production. The heart muscle requires a constant and intensive supply of energy; thiamine is a cofactor for critical enzymes involved in its production.
Conditions that Increase the Need for Vitamin B1
Gluten-Free Diet:
A gluten-free diet can sometimes lead to lower vitamin B1 (thiamine) levels because many gluten-containing foods, such as whole grains, naturally contain thiamine. When these foods are removed from the diet, a deficiency can potentially occur if they are not adequately replaced with other thiamine-rich foods.
Diet Rich in Processed Grains:
Processed grains differ from their natural, whole form. Processed grains are typically processed by removing the bran and germ, resulting in a finer, whiter product. For example, white flour, white rice, and white bread are examples of processed grains. Many nutrients, including vitamin B1, are lost during this processing.
Athletes:
People who exercise regularly or professional athletes will have a higher need for thiamine because their diets are primarily carbohydrate-rich.
Forms of Vitamin B1
Thiamine Hydrochloride
- This is the most commonly used form.
- It is water-soluble and quickly absorbed.
- It is commonly found in standard multivitamin supplements.
Thiamine Mononitrate
- It is more stable and has a longer shelf life than the hydrochloride form.
- It deteriorates less in humid environments.
- It is frequently preferred in tablet and powder form for supplements.
Benfotiamin
- It is a fat-soluble derivative of vitamin B1.
- Benfotiamin is absorbed much better than water-soluble forms of thiamine. When ingested, the thiamine level reached in the blood is approximately 5 times higher. Its bioavailability is 3.6 times greater compared to thiamine hydrochloride and is also superior to other fat-soluble thiamine types. Its most pronounced effects are seen in muscles (5 times more) and the brain (25 times more). It also reaches organs such as the liver and kidneys in 10-40% greater amounts.
- The maximum daily dose of Benfotiamin, which can be used in food supplements, is 25 mg. Because of its high bioavailability, it may produce the same effect at lower doses.
- Studies exist regarding its use in higher doses for diabetic neuropathy, oxidative stress, and other metabolic diseases. However, there are not enough studies examining the long-term harms or side effects of Benfotiamin. Existing research is not designed to evaluate side effects. Therefore, its use in high doses without medical supervision may not be safe.
Which form?
Thiamine hydrochloride and thiamine mononitrate are ideal forms of general vitamin B1 supplementation and deficiency prevention. Products containing these forms are affordable and widely available.
Benfotiamin helps reduce oxidative stress at the cellular level and supports cell protection because it is fat-soluble and therefore better absorbed by the cells. It is therefore preferable. Furthermore, it provides effectiveness at a lower dose than other forms of thiamine. Its use may also be beneficial in individuals with conditions that slow absorption (such as celiac disease).