Your kidneys play a vital role in maintaining thiamine levels. High blood pressure—often linked to a high-sodium diet full of processed foods—can damage the kidneys, speeding up nutrient loss. Early-stage kidney issues often go unnoticed, quietly contributing to thiamine deficiency.
Other factors, such as heavy metal exposure, chronic gut issues (like IBS or frequent diarrhea), and even aging (which reduces stomach acid), can impair your body’s ability to absorb or use thiamine effectively.
Brain Health Is Bigger Than One Vitamin
While thiamine is key, it’s only part of a broader nutritional foundation that supports brain health. Other important nutrients include:
Vitamin D: Technically a hormone, it supports memory, mood, and cognitive function. Its effectiveness depends on nutrients like magnesium, zinc, boron, and Vitamin K2.
Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA): These essential fats make up much of the brain’s structure and are critical for memory, mood regulation, and neuron protection. A deficiency has been linked to insomnia and depression.
A Preventive, Nutrition-First Approach to Aging
Rather than waiting for illness to surface, we should proactively support brain health by prioritizing essential nutrients. Whole, minimally processed foods—not just supplements—are the most effective way to nourish the brain.
By staying educated and making thoughtful choices in our diets and routines, we can help protect cognitive function, slow mental decline, and enjoy a sharper, more vibrant life as we age.
