Vitamin B1 Whole Blood Test
The Vitamin B1 Whole Blood Test measures levels of vitamin B1 in the blood.
Description
Thiamine, or vitamin B1, is involved in a number of functions in the body, including the nervous system (axonal conduction) and muscular functioning (electrolyte flow in these cells), carbohydrate metabolism, enzymatic processes, and production of hydrochloric acid needed for digestion.
Low levels of thiamine reflect malabsorption states, poor nutritional status, or inadequate oral intake, while high levels suggest excessive intake or absorption issues. Conditions that increase the risk of vitamin B1 deficiency include the following:
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Alcoholism
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Malnutrition
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Malabsorption (eg, chronic diarrhea)
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Dieting
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Renal dialysis
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Poor nutritional status on parenteral glucose (TPN)
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Bariatric weight-loss surgery
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Long-term diuretic therapy due to urinary losses
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Prolonged hyperemesis gravidarum or anorexia in women
symptoms of B Vitamin deficiency include:
- irritability
- skin rash
- fatigue
- insomnia
- numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
- sores on the lips or in the mouth.