Niacin (B3) 100mg

Niacin is part of the B family of vitamins and is frequently identified as Vitamin B3. As a group, the B vitamins are important to a number of different functions. One of their prime responsibilities is the process of turning food into energy, especially the breakdown of protein and fats. Vitamin B3 is used to convert carbohydrates to glucose for energy. Within the cells niacin acts as an antioxidant neutralizing free radicals before they cause damage. Niacin is also utilized by the body to remove toxic and harmful chemicals and it helps the body produce sex and stress related hormones in the adrenal gland and elsewhere.

Major deficiencies of niacin are rare since the body can produce niacin from the amino acid tryptophan and since it is available through red meat. Severe deficiency results in a disease called pellagra which now is only seen rarely except in developing countries with corn as a major dietary component.

Niacin works with two other B vitamins, riboflavin and pyroxidene, to facilitate smooth functioning of the skin, intestinal tract and nervous system. It works to improve circulation by allowing blood vessels to relax and dilate. This action may be particularly helpful to individuals with circulation problems like intermittent claudication or Raynaud’s syndrome. Large doses of niacin are now known to be effective in lowering total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and raising HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Because large doses have potentially serious side effects, consult a physician before using high (>500 mg/day) doses for cholesterol control.

There is evidence that niacin may help other conditions too. These conditions include PMS, osteoarthritis, headaches, vertigo, and tinnitus. While it is important to get all the B vitamins, often through one supplement, people may also need additional niacin in their daily intake.