Synopsis

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

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) and Heart Function: Evidence Overview

Thiamine (vitamin B1) is an essential nutrient involved in carbohydrate metabolism and proper nerve and muscle function, including that of the heart. There is scientific evidence supporting the use of thiamine supplementation in certain cardiac conditions, especially in cases where deficiency is present.

Thiamine deficiency, though uncommon in developed countries, can lead to a condition known as beriberi. The "wet" form of beriberi specifically affects the cardiovascular system, causing symptoms such as an enlarged heart, rapid heart rate, edema, and in severe cases, heart failure. Supplementation with thiamine can rapidly reverse these symptoms, providing strong clinical validation for its use in cases of deficiency-induced cardiac weakness.

Additionally, some studies have examined thiamine supplementation in patients with chronic heart failure, particularly those receiving long-term diuretic therapy, which can lead to increased urinary loss of thiamine. Small clinical trials have suggested that thiamine supplementation may improve cardiac function (e.g., increased left ventricular ejection fraction) in these patients, though data are limited and larger studies are needed.

In summary, there is moderate scientific support for using thiamine to treat heart weakness when deficiency is present or likely, especially in specific populations such as those with malnutrition or on prolonged diuretic therapy. However, evidence for its use in individuals with normal thiamine status and heart weakness is limited.

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