Thiamine mononitrate, known more commonly as thiamin or vitamin B-1, is one of several nutrients that allow the body’s nervous system to function. Everyone needs thiamine in their diet, though for pregnant women this nutrient is especially important. Natural sources of thiamine are generally considered safe, though pregnant women taking supplements should not take more than the daily recommended amount.
Daily Thiamine Requirements
Thiamine mononitrate is another name for vitamin B-1, also known simply as thiamine. The average person needs anywhere from 1 to 1.2 milligrams of thiamine mononitrate every day, based on age and sex. Pregnant women, however, need a little more: according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a pregnant woman should get 1.4 milligrams of thiamine daily. The extra contributes not only to her own nervous system, heart and muscle function, but also that of the unborn baby. In addition, thiamine can help pregnant women maintain their energy. Most multivitamins and prenatal vitamins contain B-1, though you can also get plenty of this vitamin by eating a balanced diet. B-1 is found in fortified grains such as cereals and bread, as well as pasta, legumes and berries.
Can You Take Too Much?
According to MayoClinic.com, most people can tolerate high levels of thiamine daily, even when taken in excess of the daily requirements. While there have been few adverse effects reported by the average person, the effects of excessive thiamine mononitrate on pregnant women have not been thoroughly studied in humans as of date of publication. In other words, pregnant women should stick to the daily recommended guideline unless advised to do otherwise by their obstetrician. While there is little evidence that excessive amounts of B-1 could harm you or your baby, there is also little assurance that large amounts are completely safe.
Potential Complications
The FDA classifies thiamine supplements into category C for pregnant women. In other words, human studies are limited and any risk to either mom or baby cannot be completely ruled out. While it is possible for the unborn baby to be harmed if mom uses a drug or supplement falling into this category, the expected benefits of most category C drugs are thought to outweigh the potential risks. For adults who are not pregnant, thiamine supplements may cause blood pressure to drop, or lead to muscle relaxation and skin irritation. However, MayoClinic.com reports that overall, the vitamin is generally considered to be safe.
General Guidelines
If you are pregnant, do not take any type of supplement without first talking to your doctor. While the thiamine found in your prenatal vitamin and your diet is ok, avoid taking any additional vitamin B-1 supplements unless your obstetrician advises you to do otherwise. Thiamine mononitrate deficiencies are rare, according to UMMC, so the chances of you needing these extra supplements are minimal. If you are concerned about getting enough thiamine mononitrate to meet your needs during your pregnancy, talk to a nutritionist about your dietary options.
