Vitamin B3
Niacin / Nicotinic Acid / Nicotinamide
Strong
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) is essential for energy metabolism and DNA repair. It exists in two main forms: nicotinic acid (causes flushing but improves cholesterol) and nicotinamide (no flushing, different therapeutic uses). Prescription-strength niacin is used to manage dyslipidemia.
How It Works
Niacin is a precursor to two critical coenzymes:
- NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide): Central to over 400 enzymatic reactions including glycolysis, citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. Also crucial for sirtuins (longevity-associated enzymes) and DNA repair.
- NADP+ (NAD Phosphate): Essential for anabolic reactions, fatty acid synthesis, cholesterol synthesis, and antioxidant defense (regenerating glutathione).
- Cholesterol Effects (Nicotinic Acid): Inhibits lipolysis in adipose tissue, reducing free fatty acid flux to liver and decreasing VLDL/LDL production while increasing HDL.
Natural Food Sources
| Food | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 10.3 mg per 3 oz |
| Tuna | 11.3 mg per 3 oz |
| Turkey | 10 mg per 3 oz |
| Peanuts | 4.2 mg per 1 oz |
| Mushrooms | 3.5 mg per cup |
| Green peas | 3 mg per cup |
Safety Information
Contraindications
- Active liver disease - niacin can cause hepatotoxicity at high doses
- Active peptic ulcer - nicotinic acid may worsen
- Gout - may increase uric acid levels
Potential Side Effects
- Flushing (nicotinic acid) - warmth, redness, itching (common)
- Headache (common)
- Nausea and digestive upset (uncommon)
- Liver toxicity (high doses, especially sustained-release) (rare)
- Elevated blood glucose (uncommon)
Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.