Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high levels of glucose in the blood due to the lack of insulin or the inability of the body to use available insulin. Thiamine, or vitamin B1, is a B-complex vitamin that is necessary for the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins and fats into energy that can be used by the body. Thiamine also helps the nervous system function properly. Thiamine deficiency is common in diabetics.
Diabetes and Thiamine Deficiency
Researchers from Warwick University state that most diabetics have have thiamine deficiency due to an increased rate of thiamine loss in urine. The researchers also found that thiamine deficiency is the main cause of vascular problems experienced by diabetic patients. Current research shows that taking high doses of thiamine can prevent kidney damage in type 2 diabetics, according to MedlinePlus. High doses of thiamine decrease the amount of albumin in the urine. Albumin in urine indicates kidney impairment.
Symptoms of Thiamine Deficiency
Low levels of thiamine cause problems with carbohydrates digestion, which leads to excess fatigue because the body lacks energy. Thiamine deficiency also causes inflammation of nerves outside the brain leading to symptoms such as loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort, problems breathing, tingling and burning sensations in hands and feet, depression, memory loss, mental confusion, irritability, muscle weakness, fast heart rate, irregular heart rate, edema, body wasting and problems sleeping,
Sources of Thiamine
The daily recommended dietary intake of thiamine is 1.2 mg in males and 1.1 mg in females, according to MedlinePlus. Diabetics are encouraged to eat foods high in thiamine so as to prevent thiamine deficiency. Natural sources of thiamine include peas, beans, nuts, whole grain cereals and breads, pork, liver, potatoes, brown rice, sunflower seeds, eggs, oranges, cauliflower, rye, kale and asparagus.
Thiamine Supplements
A doctor may prescribe thiamine supplements for diabetics with severe deficiency in the vitamin. Thiamine supplements are available in form of oral tablets and injections. The tablets are taken three times a day with meals. Patients should not chew or crush extended-release thiamine tablets. Side effects of thiamine include weakness, sweating, nausea, restlessness, diarrhea, upset stomach and itching, according to Drugs.com. Thiamine injections contain aluminium, and prolonged use may cause kidney impairment. Patients allergic to thiamine and multivitamins should consult their doctor before taking thiamine.
