Vitamin B3 (Niacin, Nicotinic Acid, Niacinamide)

 

Why Does the Body Need Vitamin B3?

 

1. It is essential for energy production
2. It aids in the production of hydrochloric acid and bile secretion for the digestive system
3. It is needed for proper metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates
4. It helps balance blood sugar
5. It assists in lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels
6. It is involved in the normal secretion of bile and stomach fluids
7. It is needed for healthy skin and proper circulation
8. It aids in the functioning of the nervous system
9. It is involved in the synthesis of the sex hormones
10. Studies have shown that is can be helpful for people suffering from Schizophrenia or other mental illnesses
11. It is also enhances memory
12. It is used to stop diarrhea

 

What are some symptoms of Deficiency Vitamin B3?
The main disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin B3 is known as Pellagra.

 

Other symptoms of deficiency, in alphabetical order are:
1. acne
2. anxiety
3. canker sores
4. dementia
5. depression
6. dermatitis
7. diarrhea
8. dizziness
9. eczema
10. fatigue
11. halitosis (bad breath)
12. headaches
13. indigestion
14. insomnia
15. pain in the arms and legs
16. loss of appetite
17. low blood sugar
18. muscular weakness
19. poor memory
20. skin eruptions and inflammation
21. tender gums

 

Where do you naturally find Vitamin B3 (in alphabetical order)?
1. asparagus
2. avocados
3. beef liver
4. brewer's yeast
5. broccoli
6. carrots
7. cauliflower
8. cheese
9. chicken
10. corn
11. dandelion greens
12. dates
13. eggs
14. hijiki
15. lamb
16. legumes
17. mackerel
18. milk
19. mushrooms
20. nori
21. peanuts
22. pork
23. potatoes
24. salmon
25. squash
26. tomatoes
27. tuna
28. turkey
29. wheat germ
30. whole wheat products

 

Notes and/or Cautions:
Some people may experience a "flush" after consuming Vitamin B3. This flush usually consists of a red rash that suddenly appears on the skin and has a tingling sensation. It usually lasts anywhere from a few minutes to up to half an hour, but can be quite alarming if you don’t know what it is. The flush occurs when ingesting Niacin or Nicotinic acid. However, it does not happen if taken in the form of Niacinamide. Note: Niacinamide is not as effective at lowering blood cholesterol as Niacin. Niacin can be depleted from the body by birth control pills, antibiotics, caffeine and alcohol

 

The following people should use caution when taking Niacin supplements. Pregnant women along with people with the following ailments:
1. Diabetes
2. Glaucoma
3. Gout
4. liver disease
5. peptic ulcers

 

Finally, liver damage can occur when taking dosages exceeding 500mg per day over an extended period.