Vitamin B3 (Niacin) is a water-soluble vitamin essential for energy production, DNA repair, and cell signaling. It exists in two main forms: nicotinic acid and niacinamide. Niacin is critical for prev...
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) is a water-soluble vitamin essential for energy production, DNA repair, and cell signaling. It exists in two main forms: nicotinic acid and niacinamide. Niacin is critical for preventing pellagra and may be used to manage cholesterol levels at higher doses, although such usage can lead to side effects. Niacinamide is generally better tolerated regarding flushing. Supplementation should be approached cautiously, particularly at higher doses, and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. The specific form of niacin used (nicotinic acid vs. niacinamide) and the dosage should be carefully considered to optimize benefits and minimize potential side effects.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Outside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
14-16mg daily (RDA); Supplement dosages vary, often ranging from 50-500mg daily, depending on the intended use.
Source Type
synthetic
Production Process
Niacin is typically produced synthetically through chemical synthesis, often involving the oxidation of 5-ethyl-2-methylpyridine with nitric acid or other oxidizing agents. Niacinamide is commonly produced by amidating nicotinic acid with ammonia.
Use Type
BothPotential Benefits
Promotes healthy skin and reduces signs of aging.
Supports cardiovascular health.
Helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels by reducing LDL cholesterol, increasing HDL cholesterol, and lowering triglycerides, thereby supporting cardiovascular health.
Niacin aids in cholesterol management by lowering LDL and VLDL cholesterol while increasing HDL cholesterol. It inhibits fat breakdown in adipose tissue, which reduces LDL and VLDL production.
Niacin prevents and treats pellagra by replenishing NAD and NADP, essential coenzymes for cellular metabolism. This resolves the characteristic symptoms of dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia associated with the deficiency.
Possible Side Effects
May cause mild digestive discomfort.
Low blood pressure (hypotension) occurs when blood pressure is too low, leading to insufficient blood flow to vital organs. Symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, and potentially fainting; it can be caused by dehydration, medications, or underlying health conditions.
Niacin flush is a common side effect of nicotinic acid (vitamin B3) supplementation, causing redness, warmth, itching, and tingling on the skin due to prostaglandin release and blood vessel dilation. Symptoms are typically mild to moderately uncomfortable and resolve within a few hours.
Stomach upset, diarrhea, or cramping may occur in some individuals.
Glucosamine may slightly increase blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with diabetes. Monitoring blood glucose is recommended.
High doses of niacin can cause liver inflammation and damage, potentially leading to liver failure. Monitoring liver function is crucial during high-dose niacin supplementation.
Niacin can increase blood sugar levels by affecting insulin resistance and glucose metabolism. This is particularly concerning for individuals with diabetes or glucose intolerance.
Niacin can increase uric acid levels due to impaired kidney excretion, potentially exacerbating gout and leading to joint pain and inflammation. Chronic elevation may cause kidney issues.
Scientific Evidence
Key scientific sources include studies published in journals such as the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), and the New England Journal of Medicine concerning niacin's effects on cholesterol, pellagra, and liver function. Studies on niacinamide's impact on skin health can be found in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science and the British Journal of Dermatology. Guidelines from organizations like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the American Heart Association (AHA) also provide evidence-based recommendations.
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