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INFORMATION ON VITAMIN B3 (NIACIN)
Niacin is one of the two primary forms of vitamin B3 and a key precursor to NAD? and NADP?, coenzymes involved in more than 400 enzymatic reactions.
Functions:
- Supports mitochondrial ATP production through redox reactions
- Improves blood lipid profile and circulation
- Plays a role in DNA repair and gene expression
- Supports nervous system and skin health
POPULAR USE & PUBLISHED BENEFITS bbbb
Niacin is commonly used to support:
- Cardiovascular health (raises HDL, lowers LDL & triglycerides)
- Circulation and vascular function
- Energy metabolism and reduction of fatigue
- Brain and cognitive function
- Healthy skin, nerves, and digestive system
WHOLE FOODS
Animal Sources:
- chicken, turkey, beef, pork, liver, tuna, salmon, anchovies
Plant-Based Sources:
- peanuts, mushrooms, sunflower seeds, brown rice, fortified cereals
(Note: tryptophan can be converted into niacin in the body with the help of vitamin B6.)
RECOMMENDED USE
Synergistic Nutrients:
- Tryptophan: Converted into niacin with help of B6
- Chromium: Works with niacin in glucose metabolism
- Resveratrol & Quercetin: Synergize with NAD? precursors in cellular energy
Typical Dosages:
- Maintenance: 15–30 mg/day
- Functional support: 50–100 mg/day
- Therapeutic (lipids, NAD? boosting): up to 250 mg/day (medical supervision required)
- High-dose niacin (>500 mg/day) can cause flushing, itching, and in rare cases liver stress
- Monitor blood sugar, uric acid, and liver enzymes in long-term high-dose use
- Niacinamide is safer for skin/joint/cellular health (no flush, less liver impact)
- Avoid self-medicating with high doses for cholesterol without doctor guidance
VITAMIN B3 (NIACIN)
- NIH Fact Sheet on Niacin – ods.od.nih.gov
- Linus Pauling Institute: lpi.oregonstate.edu
- Guyton JR, Bays HE. J Clin Lipidol (2007) – Safety of niacin therapy
- Rajman L et al. Cell Metab (2018) – NAD? metabolism and aging