Health Benefits of Niacin Vitamin B3

Nicotinic Acid

Niacin is essential for cell metabolism and absorption of carbohydrates. It helps maintain healthy skin. Niacin also is essential in reducing cholesterol in the blood thus preventing atherosclerosis and thrombosis.

Other Functions : Essential for gastro-intestinal tract and central nervous system (improves brain functions).

Nicotinic acid is a form of niacin, may cause itching of the skin, flushing and stomach irritation. To avoid gastric discomfort it is best taken half-way in your meal.

Symptoms and Signs of Deficiency :

• Pellagra, a disease characterized by skin lesion, diarrhea and dementia (impairment of intellect). Fear, apprehension, excessive worry, suspicion, gloom, depression, headaches, insomnia, loss of strength, burning sensations, bad breathe, sore mouth, swollen and painful gums; digestive disturbances, nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea, excessive gas, poorly formed foul smelling stools, dermatitis, abdominal pain.

Recommended Daily Requirements :

• 18 mg. - Men
• 13 mg - Women
• 9-16 mg. - Children

Supplemental Dosage - 50 mg. daily

Therapeutic Dosage - 100 to 10,000 mg.

Food Sources : Fish, peanuts, soybean, green leafy vegetables, beans, mushrooms, potato, brown rice or enriched cereals, bran, avocado, prunes, dates, brewer's yeast, wheat germ; lean meat, liver, poultry and eggs (contains high cholesterol).