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Thiamine: Benefits and Foods High in Thiamine

Discover Thiamine benefits, top sources for vegans and carnivores and their Thiamine content per 100g.

Luke Gartland avatar
Written by Luke Gartland
Updated over 10 months ago

What is Thiamine?

Thiamine, also known as Vitamin B1, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism. It is essential for converting carbohydrates into energy, supporting nerve function, and maintaining healthy muscle and heart function.

Benefits of Thiamine

  • Energy Metabolism: Thiamine helps convert carbohydrates into energy, which is essential for maintaining overall energy levels.

  • Nerve Function: It supports the normal function of the nervous system by assisting in the synthesis of neurotransmitters.

  • Muscle Health: Thiamine is important for muscle function, including that of the heart.

  • Cognitive Function: It supports cognitive processes and brain health, contributing to memory and concentration.

Foods High in Thiamine

Here are some foods rich in Thiamine along with their approximate Thiamine content per 100 grams and the percentage of the daily recommended value (DRV) they provide. The DRV for thiamine is approximately 1.2 mg for men and 1.1 mg for women.

Top Sources of Thiamine for Carnivores

  1. Pork

    • Thiamine content: 0.98 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 82% for men, 89% for women

    • Pork is one of the richest meat sources of thiamine.

  2. Trout

    • Thiamine content: 0.43 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 36% for men, 39% for women

    • Trout is a nutritious fish that provides a good amount of thiamine.

  3. Beef

    • Thiamine content: 0.10 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 8% for men, 9% for women

    • Beef offers a moderate amount of thiamine.

  4. Chicken

    • Thiamine content: 0.08 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 7% for men, 7% for women

    • Chicken is a lean source of protein with a modest amount of thiamine.

  5. Eggs

    • Thiamine content: 0.05 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 4% for men, 5% for women

    • Eggs are a versatile food that can contribute to thiamine intake.

Top Sources of Thiamine for Vegans

  1. Sunflower Seeds

    • Thiamine content: 1.48 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 123% for men, 135% for women

    • Sunflower seeds are a great snack and an excellent source of thiamine.

  2. Lentils

    • Thiamine content: 0.87 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 73% for men, 79% for women

    • Lentils are rich in thiamine and other essential nutrients.

  3. Navy Beans

    • Thiamine content: 0.78 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 65% for men, 71% for women

    • Navy beans are versatile legumes that can be used in various dishes.

  4. Black Beans

    • Thiamine content: 0.42 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 35% for men, 38% for women

    • Black beans are a nutritious addition to salads, soups, and more.

  5. Brown Rice

    • Thiamine content: 0.16 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 13% for men, 15% for women

    • Brown rice is a whole grain that provides a modest amount of thiamine.

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