Thiamine, or vitamin B-1, plays a role in a number of functions in the body, from metabolizing fats and carbs to reducing stress. Moreover, it's necessary for healthy hair, skin, nails and eyes. Thiamine might also be beneficial for individuals with Type 2 diabetes, especially regarding kidney health.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes, also known as noninsulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition in which the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin or cells become resistant to insulin effects. This leads to high blood glucose levels, which increases the risk for obesity, kidney damage and heart disease. Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes include frequent thirst and urination, increased hunger and fatigue.
Thiamine Deficiency
Thiamine deficiency might be prevalent in those with Type 2 diabetes, according to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Essex in the United Kingdom. Scientists assessed thiamine status in Type 2 diabetics and discovered that most had low levels of thiamine due to increased urinary output of thiamine, according to findings reported in the October 2007 issue of "Diabetologia."
Microalbuminuria
High-dose thiamine supplements might provide a treatment for Type 2 diabetics with microalbuminuria, a condition in which the kidney leaks out the protein albumin into urine. Microalbuminuria is often the first sign of diabetic kidney disease. Scientists from the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom assigned Type 2 diabetic patients 100 mg of thiamine or a placebo three times per day for three months. They reported in the February 2009 issue of "Diabetologia" that those in the thiamine group experienced decreases in urine albumin compared with those in the placebo group.
Interactions
Thiamine supplements may interact with several medications, including digoxin, diuretics and phenytoin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Consult your health care physician before taking thiamine supplements.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Type 2 Diabetes
- "Diabetologia"; High Prevalence of Low Plasma Thiamine Concentration in Diabetes Linked to a Marker of Vascular Disease; P.J. Thornalley, et al.; October 2007
- "Diabetologia"; High-Dose Thiamine Therapy for Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Microalbuminuria: a Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study; N. Rabbani, et al.; February 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
