Role: As part of coenzyme TPP (thiamin pyrophosphate), it functions in several energy-producing pathways, is required for RNA and DNA synthesis, and is involved in nervous system function.
Deficiency: Beriberi deficiency disease: painful leg muscles, overall muscle weakness and wasting, loss of reflexes, and ultimately paralysis; edema, enlarged heart and heart failure; loss of appetite; depression, mental confusion; death. When complicated by alcoholism, Wernicke/Korsakoff syndrome with mental/emotional symptoms, involuntary eye movements or eye paralysis.
Sources: Pork. Organ meats. Enriched or fortified bread, pasta, rice, breakfast cereals; whole grain products. Nuts, seeds, legumes. (Widely distributed in small amounts in most fruits, vegetables, animal products, and dairy foods.)
Toxicity: Not determined