Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin B1 (thiamine hydrochloride) has a scientifically validated role in supporting heart function, particularly in cases of deficiency. Thiamine is a crucial coenzyme in carbohydrate metabolism and energy production. Deficiency in thiamine can lead to beriberi, a condition with two forms: "wet" and "dry." Wet beriberi specifically affects the cardiovascular system, leading to symptoms such as tachycardia, enlarged heart, edema, and, in severe cases, heart failure. Supplementation with thiamine has been shown to rapidly reverse these cardiac symptoms in deficiency states.

Beyond frank deficiency, some studies suggest that thiamine supplementation may be beneficial in patients with heart failure, especially those who are elderly or on long-term diuretic therapy (such as furosemide), which can deplete thiamine levels. Small clinical trials have observed improvements in cardiac function, such as increased left ventricular ejection fraction, in heart failure patients given thiamine. However, these studies are limited in size and quality, and the benefit appears most pronounced in those who are thiamine-deficient.

In summary, the use of thiamine to treat or support heart weakness is scientifically justified primarily in cases of deficiency, where evidence is strong. In non-deficient individuals with heart failure, there is moderate but not definitive evidence supporting benefit. Widespread use in heart conditions outside deficiency states is not universally recommended without further research.

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