Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient for the body. It helps lower cholesterol, reduces arthritis symptoms, and enhances brain function. However, taking too much niacin can lead to serious side effects.
1. What is Niacin?
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is one of eight B vitamins and exists in two primary chemical forms, each having distinct effects on the body. Both forms can be found in foods as well as supplements.
• Nicotinic acid: As a supplement, nicotinic acid is used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Niacinamide (or nicotinamide): Unlike nicotinic acid., niacinamide does not lower cholesterol levels. Instead, it may be beneficial in treating psoriasis and reducing the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer.
Niacin is a water-soluble vitamin, which means it is not stored in the body. If there is an excess of niacin, the body will excrete it. While the primary source of niacin is food, small amounts can also be produced from tryptophan, which is an amino acid.
2. Niacin Dosage
Niacin, like other B vitamins, plays a role in converting food into energy by supporting enzymes. It is a key component of NAD and NADP, two coenzymes essential for cell metabolism. Additionally, niacin contributes to cell signaling, DNA creation, and repair; and serves as an antioxidant.
A deficiency in niacin can lead to various symptoms, including:
• Memory loss and mental disorders
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Headaches
• Diarrhea
• Skin problems
Pellagra, a disease caused by a severe lack of niacin, occurs in many developing countries due to inadequate and non-various diets.
The recommended daily intake (RDI) of niacin depends on age and gender. Therapeutic doses of niacin, that exceed RDI, should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision. Here are the recommended daily intakes of niacin for all age groups:
Infants
• 0–6 months: 2 mg/day *
• 7–12 months: 4 mg/day *
* These figures represent Adequate Intakes, which are similar to the RDI but based on weaker scientific evidence.
Children
• 1 to 3 years: 6 mg/day
• 4 to 8 years: 8 mg/day
• 9 to 13 years: 12 mg/day
Adolescents and adults
• Males 14 years and older: 16 mg/day
• Females 14 years and older: 14 mg/day
• Pregnant women: 18 mg/day
• Breastfeeding women: 17 mg/day
3. What is the use of niacin?
Reduce LDL cholesterol
Niacin has been used since the 1950s to treat high cholesterol. It can reduce bad LDL cholesterol levels by 5% - 20%.
However, niacin is not the first-line treatment for high cholesterol due to its potential side effects.
Instead, it is primarily considered as a second-choice option for individuals who cannot tolerate statins.
Increase HDL cholesterol
Niacin not only lowers LDL cholesterol but also increases HDL cholesterol levels.
Studies have shown that niacin can raise HDL levels by 15%-35%.
Lower triglycerides
Niacin can also reduce triglyceride levels by 20% to 50%. It achieves this by blocking the activity of an enzyme involved in triglyceride synthesis, which in turn decreases the production of both LDL and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL).
Help prevent heart disease
Due to Niacin's positive effects on cholesterol levels, it may help prevent heart disease. Additionally, it may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which are associated with atherosclerosis, or the hardening of the arteries.
Some studies suggest that niacin therapy, whether used alone or in combination with statins, may help lower the risk of health issues related to heart disease. However, several recent reviews have concluded that niacin therapy does not significantly reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death from heart disease in individuals who are at risk or have high-risk factors. Therefore, further research is needed to fully understand the effect of niacin.
Help treat type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which your body attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Research suggests that niacin may help protect these insulin-producing cells and could even reduce the risk of developing type 1 diabetes in children.
In contrast, the role of niacin in type 2 diabetes is more complex. On one hand, it can help lower high cholesterol levels, which are often seen in individuals with type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, it has the potential to raise blood sugar levels.
Therefore, people with type 2 diabetes who use niacin to manage high cholesterol should closely monitor their blood sugar levels.
Boost Brain Function
Niacin is also essential for brain function. It is part of the coenzymes NAD and NADP, which are necessary for energy production and proper brain function.
A deficiency in niacin has been linked to Brain fog and even psychotic symptoms. Some types of schizophrenia can be treated with niacin, as it aids in repairing brain cell damage caused by a deficiency.
Preliminary research suggests that niacin may also help maintain brain health in cases of Alzheimer's disease. However, further research is needed before any conclusive recommendations can be made.
Enhance skin function
Niacin offers protection for skin cells from sun damage, whether it’s consumed as a supplement or applied topically in lotion form.
Recent research indicates that niacin may also help prevent certain types of skin cancer. One study found that taking 500 mg of nicotinamide (a form of niacin) twice daily led to a reduced incidence of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) among individuals at high risk.
Alleviate arthritis symptoms
In a preliminary study, niacin showed promise in alleviating several symptoms of osteoarthritis. It was found to improve joint mobility and reduce the need for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). While these results are encouraging, further research is necessary to confirm these findings.
Treatment of Pellagra (niacin deficiency)
Severe niacin deficiency causes a condition known as Pellagra. The primary treatment for this condition is the supplements of niacin. Niacin deficiency is rare in developed countries; however, certain individuals, such as those with alcoholism, anorexia, or Hartnup disease, are at high risk of developing this deficiency.
Vitamin B3 (niacin) offers various health benefits. However, if you experience an overdose or any side effects from vitamin B3, it is important to notify your doctor or visit the nearest medical facility for an appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
For evaluation, you can visit any location of the Vinmec Healthcare system nationwide or contact our hotline for support.
Source: healthline.com
