10 Best Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) Supplements (2026) Reviewed
Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, is an essential water-soluble nutrient that plays a critical role in energy metabolism, nervous system function, and cognitive health. Unlike some vitamins that your body can store, thiamine must be replenished daily through diet or supplementation.
While thiamine is found naturally in whole grains, legumes, nuts, and pork, certain populations may benefit from supplementation—including older adults, those with higher alcohol consumption, individuals with digestive disorders, and people following restrictive diets. Additionally, research suggests that specialized forms of thiamine like benfotiamine and TTFD may offer enhanced bioavailability and targeted benefits for nerve health and glucose metabolism.
To compile this guide, we analyzed bestselling products on Amazon, reviewed third-party testing results from ConsumerLab, and examined clinical research on different thiamine forms. We selected products representing various formats, dosages, and price points to help you find the best B1 supplement for your specific needs.
Table of Contents
- Quick Comparison Table
- Thiamine Forms Explained
- Individual Product Reviews
- Buying Guide
- How to Take Vitamin B1
- Potential Benefits
- Safety Considerations
- FAQ
- Bottom Line
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Form | Serving Size | Key Differentiator | Best For | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nutricost Vitamin B1 500mg | Capsule | 1 capsule (500mg) | High potency, excellent value | General supplementation | 🏆 TOP PICK |
| Nature Made Vitamin B1 100mg | Tablet | 1 tablet (100mg) | USP verified quality | Trusted mainstream brand | 🥇 Best Mainstream |
| Doctor’s Best Benfotiamine 300mg | Veggie Cap | 1 capsule (300mg) | BenfoPure branded ingredient | Enhanced absorption | 🥇 Best Benfotiamine |
| Life Extension Mega Benfotiamine | Capsule | 1 capsule (250mg benfotiamine + 10mg thiamine) | Dual-form B1 formula | Blood sugar support | 🥇 Best Combo |
| Objective Nutrients Thiamax | Capsule | 1 capsule (100mg TTFD) | No fillers, TTFD form | Maximum bioavailability | 🥇 Best TTFD |
| Solgar Vitamin B1 500mg | Tablet | 1 tablet (500mg) | 70+ year heritage brand | Premium quality seekers | |
| Pure Encapsulations BenfoMax | Capsule | 1 capsule (200mg) | Hypoallergenic, Japanese benfotiamine | Sensitive individuals | 🥇 Best Hypoallergenic |
| Double Wood Benfotiamine | Capsule | 2 capsules (300mg) | Third-party tested, split dosing | Value-conscious buyers | |
| Nutricost Benfotiamine 300mg | Capsule | 1 capsule (300mg) | NSF certified facility | Budget benfotiamine | 🥇 Best Budget |
| Kind Nature B1 Gummies 500mg | Gummy | 2 gummies (500mg) | Chewable, kid-friendly | Pill-averse users | 🥇 Best Gummy |
Note: Product details and formulations may change. Always verify current information on Amazon before purchasing.
Thiamine Forms Explained: Standard vs. Benfotiamine vs. TTFD
Not all vitamin B1 supplements are created equal. Understanding the differences between thiamine forms can help you choose the most appropriate supplement for your needs.
Standard Thiamine (Thiamine HCl or Thiamine Mononitrate)
The most common and affordable form of vitamin B1. It’s water-soluble, meaning your body absorbs what it needs and excretes the rest. Standard thiamine is effective for preventing deficiency and supporting general energy metabolism. It’s ideal for most people seeking basic B1 supplementation.
Benfotiamine
A fat-soluble synthetic derivative of thiamine that research suggests may be absorbed more efficiently and remain active in the body longer than standard thiamine. Studies indicate benfotiamine may be particularly beneficial for supporting healthy glucose metabolism and nerve function. It’s often chosen by those seeking enhanced bioavailability or specific metabolic support.
TTFD (Thiamine Tetrahydrofurfuryl Disulfide)
A lipid-soluble form of thiamine that can cross cell membranes and the blood-brain barrier more readily than standard thiamine. TTFD has been extensively researched in Japan and may be particularly useful for those seeking to support cognitive function and nervous system health. It typically requires lower doses due to its enhanced absorption.
Individual Product Reviews
Nutricost Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) 500mg — Best Overall
For most people seeking a straightforward, high-potency thiamine supplement at an excellent price point, Nutricost delivers consistent quality with transparent third-party testing.
Nutricost has built a reputation for producing straightforward, no-frills supplements at competitive prices, and their Vitamin B1 offering exemplifies this approach. Each capsule provides 500mg of thiamine mononitrate—a potent dose that far exceeds the daily recommended intake but is commonly used for those seeking therapeutic benefits or addressing increased needs.
The product is manufactured in an NSF-certified, GMP-compliant facility in the USA and undergoes third-party testing for purity and potency. The simple ingredient list includes only the active ingredient, a gelatin capsule, and minimal necessary excipients. For those who want effective B1 supplementation without premium pricing, this is an excellent starting point.
Key Specifications:
- 500mg thiamine mononitrate per capsule
- 120 capsules per bottle
- Non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free
- Third-party tested
- GMP-compliant manufacturing
Considerations: Contains gelatin, so not suitable for vegetarians. Some users may prefer lower doses for daily maintenance.
Nature Made Vitamin B1 100mg — Best Mainstream Brand
When you want the assurance of USP verification and a brand pharmacists consistently recommend, Nature Made provides reliable quality at an accessible price.
Nature Made has earned the distinction of being the #1 pharmacist-recommended vitamin and supplement brand, and their B1 supplement carries USP (United States Pharmacopeia) verification. This third-party certification means the product has been independently tested for purity, potency, and proper dissolution—giving consumers added confidence in what they’re taking.
The 100mg dosage is appropriate for general daily supplementation and falls within commonly recommended ranges for maintenance. The tablet format is easy to swallow, and the clean formulation contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. For those who prioritize brand recognition and verified quality over high potency, this is an excellent choice.
Key Specifications:
- 100mg thiamine mononitrate per tablet
- 100 tablets per bottle (100-day supply)
- USP verified
- Gluten-free, no artificial flavors or preservatives
- #1 pharmacist-recommended brand
Considerations: Lower potency than some alternatives; those seeking higher doses may prefer other options.
Doctor’s Best Benfotiamine 300mg — Best Benfotiamine
Featuring the branded BenfoPure ingredient and backed by science, Doctor’s Best offers a premium fat-soluble B1 option for those seeking enhanced absorption and metabolic support.
Doctor’s Best uses BenfoPure, a trademarked form of benfotiamine known for its purity and consistency. This fat-soluble thiamine derivative is designed to be more bioavailable than standard thiamine, remaining active in the body approximately four times longer according to research cited by the manufacturer.
The 300mg dosage aligns with amounts used in clinical studies examining benfotiamine’s potential benefits for glucose metabolism and nerve health. The vegan-friendly formula uses vegetable cellulose capsules and contains no gluten, soy, or GMO ingredients. For those specifically seeking benfotiamine’s enhanced absorption properties, this product represents a well-researched choice.
Key Specifications:
- 300mg BenfoPure benfotiamine per capsule
- 60 vegetarian capsules per bottle
- Vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free
- Science-based formulation
- Supports glucose metabolism
Considerations: Higher price point than standard thiamine; may not be necessary for basic B1 supplementation needs.
Life Extension Mega Benfotiamine 250mg — Best Combination Formula
Combining both fat-soluble benfotiamine and water-soluble thiamine in one formula, Life Extension provides comprehensive B1 support for metabolic health.
Life Extension takes a unique approach by combining 250mg of benfotiamine with 10mg of standard thiamine in each capsule. This dual-form strategy provides both immediate water-soluble B1 availability and the extended benefits of fat-soluble benfotiamine, potentially offering more complete thiamine support than single-form supplements.
The formula is specifically designed to support healthy glucose metabolism and help protect tissues against oxidative stress and advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Life Extension has been in the supplement industry for over 40 years and is known for research-driven formulations. The vegetarian capsules and clean ingredient profile make this suitable for most dietary preferences.
Key Specifications:
- 250mg benfotiamine + 10mg thiamine per capsule
- 120 vegetarian capsules per bottle
- Non-GMO, gluten-free
- Supports metabolic health and AGE protection
- 40+ year heritage brand
Considerations: Premium pricing; the combination formula may be more than needed for simple B1 maintenance.
Objective Nutrients Thiamax 100mg — Best TTFD Form
For those seeking the most bioavailable form of thiamine that can cross the blood-brain barrier, Thiamax offers pure TTFD without fillers or additives.
Objective Nutrients has created a niche following among those seeking TTFD (thiamine tetrahydrofurfuryl disulfide), a specialized form of B1 extensively researched in Japan. What sets Thiamax apart is its commitment to purity—the formula contains only TTFD complexed with a small amount of magnesium taurate, with no artificial fillers, flow agents, or additives.
TTFD’s molecular structure allows it to pass through cell membranes and the blood-brain barrier without requiring active transport, potentially making it more effective at raising thiamine levels in the central nervous system. Due to this enhanced bioavailability, lower doses are typically needed compared to standard thiamine. The small capsule size and clean formulation appeal to those who are sensitive to supplement additives.
Key Specifications:
- 100mg TTFD per capsule
- 60 capsules per bottle
- Contains magnesium taurate
- No fillers or flow agents
- Third-party tested, non-GMO, gluten-free
- Made in USA
Considerations: Has a sulfur odor that some find unpleasant; may cause initial “paradoxical reactions” in some individuals; premium pricing; should be started at low doses.
Solgar Vitamin B1 500mg — Best Premium Standard Thiamine
With over 70 years of supplement manufacturing experience, Solgar delivers pharmaceutical-grade B1 in iconic amber glass bottles that protect ingredient integrity.
Solgar has been producing quality supplements since 1947, and their Vitamin B1 reflects this heritage. The 500mg tablets provide a super-potency dose in a vegan-friendly format, using vegetable-based ingredients throughout. The signature amber glass bottles aren’t just aesthetic—they protect light-sensitive nutrients from degradation.
The formulation is free from gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, yeast, sugar, sodium, and artificial ingredients, making it suitable for those with multiple sensitivities. For consumers who value established brand heritage and are willing to pay a premium for perceived quality, Solgar represents a solid choice in the standard thiamine category.
Key Specifications:
- 500mg thiamine HCl per tablet
- 100 tablets per bottle
- Vegan, kosher
- Free from major allergens
- Amber glass bottle packaging
- 70+ year brand heritage
Considerations: Higher price than comparable potency products; tablets may be larger than some prefer.
Pure Encapsulations BenfoMax 200mg — Best Hypoallergenic Option
For those with sensitivities to common supplement additives, Pure Encapsulations delivers premium Japanese benfotiamine in their signature hypoallergenic formula.
Pure Encapsulations has built its reputation on creating supplements free from unnecessary additives and common allergens, making them a go-to brand for integrative healthcare practitioners. BenfoMax features pure Japanese-manufactured benfotiamine—considered the gold standard for this ingredient—in a formula specifically designed for sensitive individuals.
The product is free from wheat, gluten, eggs, peanuts, magnesium stearate, coatings, artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners. The 200mg dosage allows for flexible dosing (1-3 capsules daily), and the hypoallergenic capsule shell ensures minimal reaction potential. For those working with healthcare providers on specialized protocols, this premium option offers the purity many practitioners prefer.
Key Specifications:
- 200mg BenfoPure benfotiamine per capsule
- 90 capsules per bottle
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Japanese-manufactured benfotiamine
- Vegan, non-GMO
- Practitioner-recommended brand
Considerations: Premium pricing; primarily available through healthcare practitioners or specialty retailers.
Double Wood Benfotiamine 300mg — Best Value Benfotiamine
Offering third-party tested benfotiamine at a competitive price point, Double Wood provides quality fat-soluble B1 without the premium markup.
Double Wood Supplements has carved out a niche offering science-backed supplements at accessible prices, and their benfotiamine is no exception. Each bottle contains 120 capsules of 150mg each, allowing for a standard 300mg serving (2 capsules) that can be split between meals for potentially better absorption throughout the day.
The product is manufactured and tested in the USA, with third-party verification of potency and purity. The vegetarian-friendly formula contains no gluten or GMO ingredients. For those who want the benefits of benfotiamine without paying premium prices, Double Wood represents solid value.
Key Specifications:
- 150mg benfotiamine per capsule (300mg per 2-capsule serving)
- 120 capsules per bottle (60 servings)
- Third-party tested for potency
- Vegetarian, non-GMO, gluten-free
- Made and tested in USA
Considerations: Requires two capsules per serving; less established brand than some competitors.
Nutricost Benfotiamine 300mg — Best Budget Benfotiamine
For those seeking affordable benfotiamine without compromising on quality standards, Nutricost delivers reliable fat-soluble B1 at an unbeatable price.
Nutricost applies their value-focused approach to benfotiamine, offering 300mg per single capsule—a convenient one-capsule serving that simplifies daily supplementation. Manufactured in an NSF-certified, FDA-registered facility, the product meets rigorous quality standards while maintaining competitive pricing.
The formula uses vegetarian cellulose capsules and undergoes third-party testing for quality assurance. With 90 capsules per bottle providing a three-month supply at one capsule daily, this represents excellent long-term value for those committed to consistent benfotiamine supplementation.
Key Specifications:
- 300mg benfotiamine per capsule
- 90 vegetarian capsules per bottle
- NSF-certified, GMP-compliant facility
- Third-party tested
- Non-GMO, gluten-free
Considerations: Newer product with less extensive review history than some competitors.
Kind Nature Vitamin B1 Gummies 500mg — Best Gummy Option
For adults and children who struggle with pills, Kind Nature offers a delicious strawberry-flavored alternative that makes getting your daily B1 enjoyable.
Not everyone can or wants to swallow capsules and tablets, making gummy supplements an important category. Kind Nature’s B1 gummies provide 500mg of thiamine per two-gummy serving in a natural strawberry flavor that appeals to both adults and children (ages 4+).
The formula is vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free, using natural flavors and colors without artificial additives. While gummies typically contain more inactive ingredients than capsules, Kind Nature has formulated these to be sugar-free and low-calorie. For families or individuals who prioritize compliance over capsule purity, these gummies ensure B1 supplementation actually happens.
Key Specifications:
- 500mg thiamine per 2-gummy serving
- 60 gummies per bottle (30 servings)
- Natural strawberry flavor
- Vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free
- Suitable for ages 4+
- Made in GMP-certified USA facility
Considerations: Higher cost per serving than capsules; contains sweeteners and gummy base ingredients; shorter supply per bottle.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Vitamin B1 Supplement
Key Quality Indicators
Third-Party Testing: Look for products that have been independently tested for purity, potency, and contaminants. Certifications from organizations like USP, NSF, or documentation of third-party testing provide added assurance.
GMP Certification: Supplements manufactured in GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) compliant facilities follow standardized quality control procedures. This is especially important for ensuring consistent dosing and avoiding contamination.
Transparent Labeling: Quality products clearly list all ingredients, including inactive ingredients. Avoid supplements with vague terms like “proprietary blends” that obscure actual amounts.
Form Selection Guide
Choose Standard Thiamine If: You want affordable basic B1 supplementation, have no specific absorption concerns, or are addressing general nutritional needs.
Choose Benfotiamine If: You’re interested in enhanced bioavailability, want to support healthy glucose metabolism, or are specifically focused on nerve health support.
Choose TTFD If: You’re seeking maximum bioavailability, want B1 that crosses the blood-brain barrier more readily, or are working with a healthcare provider on specific protocols.
Dosage Considerations
The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for thiamine is 1.1-1.2mg for adults, but therapeutic doses in supplements typically range from 50-500mg for standard thiamine and 150-300mg for benfotiamine. Higher doses are generally considered safe as excess water-soluble B1 is excreted, but it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider before taking high-potency supplements, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications.
Red Flags to Avoid
- Products making disease treatment claims
- Extremely low prices from unknown brands
- Missing or vague ingredient lists
- No mention of manufacturing standards or testing
- Excessive artificial additives, colors, or fillers
How to Take Vitamin B1
Recommended Dosage
General supplementation typically ranges from 50-100mg daily for standard thiamine. For higher-potency formulas (500mg), one capsule daily is usually sufficient. Benfotiamine is commonly taken at 150-300mg daily, while TTFD doses are typically lower (50-100mg) due to enhanced absorption.
Best Time to Take
Standard thiamine can be taken any time of day, with or without food. Fat-soluble forms like benfotiamine are best absorbed when taken with meals containing some dietary fat. TTFD is often recommended in the morning, as it may be energizing and could potentially interfere with sleep if taken late in the day.
Usage Tips by Form
Tablets and Capsules: Take with a full glass of water. Can be taken with or without food, though food may reduce any potential stomach upset.
Benfotiamine: Best absorbed with food containing fat. Can be split into divided doses (morning and evening) for sustained levels.
TTFD: Start with lower doses and increase gradually. Avoid taking with coffee or tea within 1-2 hours, as caffeine may interfere with absorption. Take with magnesium and a B-complex for optimal utilization.
Gummies: Chew thoroughly before swallowing. Store in a cool, dry place to prevent melting or sticking.
Duration and Cycling
Vitamin B1 is water-soluble and doesn’t typically require cycling. However, for high-dose protocols, some practitioners recommend periodic breaks. Consult with a healthcare provider about long-term supplementation strategies based on your individual needs.
Potential Benefits of Vitamin B1
Energy Metabolism: Thiamine is essential for converting carbohydrates into cellular energy. Research consistently supports its role as a coenzyme in the citric acid cycle, the primary energy-producing pathway in cells.
Nervous System Support: Thiamine plays a crucial role in nerve cell function and the production of neurotransmitters. Studies suggest adequate thiamine status may support cognitive function and healthy nerve conduction.
Cardiovascular Health: Research indicates thiamine may support heart muscle function. Some studies have examined thiamine supplementation in individuals with cardiovascular concerns, though more research is needed.
Glucose Metabolism (Benfotiamine): Preliminary research suggests benfotiamine may help support healthy glucose metabolism by activating transketolase, an enzyme involved in glucose processing. Some studies have examined its potential role in supporting healthy AGE (advanced glycation end product) levels.
Cognitive Function (TTFD): Due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, TTFD has been studied for its potential to support brain thiamine levels and cognitive function, though larger studies are needed to confirm benefits.
Note: While thiamine is essential for these functions, supplementation benefits may be most pronounced in those with inadequate dietary intake or increased requirements. Consult a healthcare provider to determine if supplementation is appropriate for you.
Safety Considerations
Potential Side Effects
Thiamine is generally considered very safe, even at high doses, as excess amounts are excreted in urine. However, some people may experience mild side effects including nausea, stomach upset, sweating, or mild skin reactions. TTFD may cause a temporary sulfur odor in breath or urine.
Paradoxical Reactions (TTFD)
Some individuals starting TTFD supplementation report a temporary worsening of symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, or digestive discomfort during the first week. This is often referred to as a “paradoxical reaction” and typically resolves as the body adjusts. Starting with lower doses may help minimize this effect.
Who Should Exercise Caution
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Should consult healthcare providers before supplementing beyond standard prenatal vitamins
- Those with allergies: Individuals with sensitivities to sulfur-containing compounds should be cautious with TTFD and possibly benfotiamine
- People taking medications: Those on diuretics (especially loop diuretics), chemotherapy drugs like fluorouracil, or anticonvulsants should discuss thiamine supplementation with their healthcare provider
- Those with kidney disease: High doses may require medical supervision
Drug Interactions
Thiamine may interact with certain medications. Loop diuretics (furosemide) can deplete thiamine. The chemotherapy drug fluorouracil may interfere with thiamine metabolism. Some anticonvulsants may affect thiamine status. Always inform healthcare providers about all supplements you take.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
- If you have existing health conditions
- If you take prescription medications
- If you experience persistent side effects
- Before starting high-dose protocols
- If you’re considering thiamine for specific health concerns
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between thiamine, benfotiamine, and TTFD?
A: Standard thiamine (thiamine HCl or mononitrate) is water-soluble and the most common supplemental form. Benfotiamine is a fat-soluble derivative with enhanced bioavailability that may remain active longer in the body. TTFD is a specialized lipid-soluble form that can cross cell membranes and the blood-brain barrier more readily, potentially offering superior absorption at lower doses.
Q: How much vitamin B1 should I take daily?
A: The RDA for adults is 1.1-1.2mg, but supplemental doses typically range from 50-500mg for standard thiamine and 150-300mg for benfotiamine. TTFD is usually dosed at 50-100mg due to enhanced absorption. Consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dose for your individual needs.
Q: Can you take too much vitamin B1?
A: Thiamine is water-soluble, so excess amounts are typically excreted rather than stored. No Tolerable Upper Intake Level has been established because toxic effects are rare. However, very high doses may cause mild side effects in some individuals, and it’s best to work with a healthcare provider when considering high-potency supplementation.
Q: Is it better to take B1 alone or as part of a B-complex?
A: Both approaches have merit. Standalone B1 allows for specific dosing, which may be preferable for those with particular thiamine-related concerns. B-complex supplements provide a broader range of B vitamins that work synergistically. Many healthcare providers recommend taking B1 alongside a B-complex to maintain balance among B vitamins.
Q: When is the best time to take vitamin B1?
A: Standard thiamine can be taken any time of day. Fat-soluble forms like benfotiamine are best absorbed with meals containing fat. TTFD is often recommended in the morning, as it may have energizing effects that could interfere with sleep if taken late in the day.
Q: Who might benefit most from B1 supplementation?
A: Those who may benefit include older adults (who may have decreased absorption), individuals with higher alcohol consumption (which depletes B1), people with digestive disorders affecting nutrient absorption, those following restrictive diets, diabetics (who may have increased B1 requirements), and athletes or highly active individuals.
Q: Can B1 supplements help with energy levels?
A: Thiamine is essential for converting carbohydrates into cellular energy. If energy issues stem from inadequate B1 status, supplementation may help. However, if you have adequate thiamine from your diet, additional supplementation may not provide noticeable energy benefits. Persistent fatigue should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Q: Are there any foods that interact with B1 supplements?
A: Coffee and tea contain compounds that may interfere with thiamine absorption, so it’s often recommended to separate their consumption from B1 supplementation by 1-2 hours. Raw fish and shellfish contain thiaminases that destroy thiamine, but this isn’t typically a concern with supplements taken separately from these foods.
Q: How long does it take to notice effects from B1 supplementation?
A: This varies considerably by individual. Some people report noticing effects within days, while others may take weeks. Those with significant thiamine inadequacy may notice effects sooner than those with adequate baseline status. Consistent supplementation over several weeks is typically needed to assess effectiveness.
Q: Should I choose capsules, tablets, or gummies?
A: Capsules and tablets typically offer the most straightforward formulation with fewer additives. Gummies are ideal for those who have difficulty swallowing pills but contain additional ingredients for texture and flavor. The best choice depends on your personal preferences and any sensitivities to inactive ingredients.
Bottom Line: Our Recommendations
For most people seeking straightforward B1 supplementation: Nutricost Vitamin B1 500mg offers excellent potency, quality manufacturing, and unbeatable value.
For those wanting a trusted mainstream brand with verified quality: Nature Made Vitamin B1 100mg provides USP-verified reliability at a moderate dose.
For enhanced absorption and metabolic support: Doctor’s Best Benfotiamine 300mg delivers premium fat-soluble B1 with proven bioavailability.
For maximum bioavailability and brain support: Objective Nutrients Thiamax offers pure TTFD that can cross the blood-brain barrier.
For sensitive individuals requiring hypoallergenic formulas: Pure Encapsulations BenfoMax provides premium Japanese benfotiamine without common allergens.
For budget-conscious benfotiamine seekers: Nutricost Benfotiamine 300mg delivers quality at an accessible price point.
For those who prefer chewable supplements: Kind Nature B1 Gummies make daily supplementation enjoyable for adults and children alike.
Regardless of which product you choose, consistency is key with B1 supplementation. As a water-soluble vitamin that isn’t stored in the body, regular daily intake ensures you maintain adequate levels to support energy metabolism and nervous system function.
