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Consuming a diet with sufficient amounts of thiamine (vitamin B1) prevents most cases of beriberi. Recommendations for intake are made by the Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academy of Sciences.

To meet these recommendations, the best dietary sources of thiamine are:

• Fish and lean meats, especially pork
• Enriched breads and cereals
• Whole grain products, especially wheat germ
• Fresh fruits and vegetables (if consumed in large amounts)
• Legumes (e.g., peas, beans, soybean)

Food preparation is also important since the vitamin can be destroyed by overcooking and may dissolve in water during boiling.

Nursing mothers should consume sufficient thiamine for themselves as well as their infants. When providing formula to the infant, the parent should check its nutritional information to ensure that it contains recommended levels of thiamine. As infants move from breast milk and formula to other foods, their diet should include thiamine-rich foods, such as whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables.