Benfotiamine: Benefits, Uses & Potential Side Effects

Benfotiamine is a compound that is an analog (meaning it is structurally similar to) thiamine, also known as vitamin B1. It is thought that this compound is processed by the body to form a more easily absorbed form of the vitamin. Benfotiamine can lead to flushing, a skin rash, and should not be used during pregnancy. There is also some evidence that Benfotiamine can lead to a a gradual decrease in blood pressure.

Benfotiamine Uses

• Benfotiamine is often used as an anti-aging medication, especially to help prevent age-related diabetes.

Diabetes Prevention

• Benfotiamine is thought to help prevent diabetes by aiding in the breakdown of some of the toxic byproducts of high blood sugar.

Mechanism of Action

• It is thought that Benfotiamine helps to activate the enzyme transketolase. Transketolase breaks down triosephosphates, which can cause damage to blood vessels as a result of high blood sugar.

Benfotiamine Uses

• Benfotiamine is effective at preventing damage to the retina and kidneys as a result of diabetes.

Benfotiamine Products

• Benfotiamine is typically sold as caplets for daily supplementation and can be purchased at many stores that sell vitamins and other herbal products, as well as on-line.