Adequate amounts of Vitamin B1 are essential for life. Vitamin B1 is necessary for every cell in the body to convert carbohydrates into energy. Think of Vitamin B1 as the energy vitamin. Nerve cells require more energy than all other cell types and, as such, problems with the functioning of nerves are generally the first and most common sign of LowB1 . In the feet and legs, LowB1 causes numbness, tingling, burning, and pains. In the brain, LowB1 causes forgetfulness, decreased mental acuity, and loss of appetite.