Posted in NUTRIENTS

Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)

What does thiamin do? This vitamin plays a critical role in energy metabolism and, therefore, in the growth, development, and function of cells. Thiamin (or thiamine) is one of the water-soluble B vitamins. It is also known as vitamin B1. Thiamin is naturally present in some foods, added to some food products, and available as a dietary supplement.

How much do I need? The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for adult males the RDA is 1.2 mg daily. For adult females 18 years of age, the RDA is 1 mg daily. For adult females 19 years and older, the RDA is 1.1 mg daily.

What are some good plant food sources of thiamin? Good plant food sources of thiamin are FORTIFIED CEREALS, BLACK BEANS, ACORN SQUASH, and BROWN RICE.

Are supplements recommended?
Thiamine (Vitamin B1) supplements are generally only necessary if you have a diagnosed deficiency, are at high risk (e.g., alcohol dependency, bariatric surgery, chronic illness), or are advised by a doctor. It is crucial for converting food into energy and supports nerve/heart health, with deficiencies leading to fatigue, muscle weakness, or memory issues.

Source: National Institutes of Health

Thiamin-Rich Foods and Recipes

How to Cook Brown Rice

The secret of fluffy brown rice is rinse before cooking and boil uncovered for a full 30 minutes. Brown rice can help prevent or improve several health conditions, including diabetes and heart disease.

Oat Facts

Oats are a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Corn Facts

Corn is a significant source of COMPLEX CARBOHYDRATES, VITAMIN B1, VITAMIN B3, VITAMIN B5, VITAMIN B9, PHOSPHOROUS, and MAGNESIUM. Corn, or maize, (español: maíz) was domesticated by indigenous peoples in southern Mexico about 10,000 years ago. It has become a staple food in many parts of the world, with the total production surpassing that of wheat or rice. Sugar-rich varieties called sweet corn are…

FOODMG OF THIAMIN PER SERVINGPERCENT DV
Breakfast cereals, fortified with 100% of the DV for thiamin, 1 serving1.2100
Black beans, boiled, ½ cup0.433
Macaroni, whole wheat, cooked, 1 cup0.217
Acorn squash, cubed, baked, ½ cup0.217
Rice, brown, long grain, not enriched, cooked, ½ cup0.217
Rice, white, long grain, enriched, cooked, ½ cup0.18
Bread, whole wheat, 1 slice0.18
Orange juice, prepared from concentrate, 1 cup0.18
Sunflower seeds, toasted, 1 ounce0.18
Oatmeal, regular and quick, unenriched, cooked with water, ½ cup0.18
Corn, yellow, boiled, 1 medium ear0.18
Barley, pearled, cooked, 1 cup0.18
Posted in NUTRIENTS

Potassium

Beet greens, lima beans, bake potato and yams are rich in potassium. Potassium is an essential mineral that is needed in the body for electrolyte and water balance, in addition to the daily functioning of cells. Certain types of cooking, such as boiling, can destroy the potassium in some foods so it is often better to steam, bake or stir-fry vegetables. Food processing reduces the amount of potassium in many foods and a diet high in processed foods and low in fresh fruits and vegetables is often lacking in potassium. The recommended daily amount of potassium for an adut is 4,700 milligrams, so it is important to include potassium-rich foods in daily meals.

Plant food sources of potassiummg of potassium
1/2 cup beet greens, cooked655
1/2 cup lima beans, cooked485
1/2 medium baked potato with skin463
1/2 cup yam, cooked456
1/2 cup acorn squash, cooked448
1/2 cup spinach, cooked420
1/2 cup portabella mushrooms, cooked265
1/2 cup prune juice354
1/2 cup kiwi281
1/2 cup orange juice258
1/2 cup apricots201
1/2 ounce pistachios143
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut water198
Source: Dietary Guidelines for Americans