Quick guide to Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
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- the release of energy from food
- healthy skin, blood cells and digestive system
- normal growth and development
- hormone production
- a healthy brain and nervous system
- repair of genetic material
Absorption and metabolism
Niacin is the common name for nicotinic acid and nicotinamide (niacinamide). Daily intake is necessary and needs are partly met by the conversion of the amino acid, tryptophan, to niacin.
Deficiency
Deficiency eventually leads to pellagra, with symptoms of dermatitis on the hands and face, weakness, appetite loss, sore mouth, diarrhea, anxiety, depression, and dementia.
Sources
These include meat, fish, pulses and whole grains.
Daily recommended dietary intakes
- Men - 16 mg
- Women - 14 mg
- Pregnancy - 18 mg
- Lactation - 17 mg
Toxic effects of excess intake
High doses of the nicotinic acid form of niacin can cause skin flushing, headaches, tingling and burning. Larger doses can cause liver damage.
Therapeutic uses of supplements
Niacin is used to treat diabetes, mental problems, high cholesterol, digestive problems, headaches, skin ailments and fatigue.
Interactions
Niacin may enhance anticonvulsant drug action.
Cautions
People who have diabetes, gout, asthma, liver disease, an active peptic ulcer, and those taking high blood pressure medication should avoid high doses of niacin.