Vitamin B3

Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, nicotinic acid, or niacinamide, is essential for metabolizing sugars, fats, and proteins, as well as for energy production and cellular respiration.

It also plays a significant role in DNA chain repair. Recent research shows that niacin is a natural substance that regulates cholesterol.

Deficiency of this vitamin can be seen in people suffering from pellagra, a skin disease. Pellagra also occurs in people in advanced stages of alcoholism.

It has a vasodilatory effect and, in addition, long-term use in high doses increases cholesterol excretion, reduces LDL production and cholesterol synthesis. It reduces lipolysis and, therefore, the level of free fatty acids that need to be re-esterified.

Excessive consumption of vitamin B3 can lead to liver damage, which is a very rare case. Daily intake of 1.5-6 grams of niacin may be associated with unpleasant side effects, including flushing, itching, dry skin, dyspepsia, and arrhythmia. Flushing, itching, and nausea may occur at doses as low as 50 mg.

Sources of Vitamin

Meat, liver, eggs, milk, fish, potatoes, and green fruits are rich in vitamin B3.

Recommended Daily Dose

Niacin is used for therapeutic purposes, such as for elevated cholesterol, in high “pharmacological” doses. These are prescribed by a doctor, who gradually increases the dose while monitoring the patient.

Infants from birth to 6 months: 2 mg
Infants 7-12 months: 4 mg
Children 1-3 years: 6 mg
Children 4-8 years: 8 mg
Children 9-13 years: 12 mg
Children 14-18 years: 14-16 mg
Adult men 19 years and older: 16 mg
Adult women 19 years and older: 14 mg
Pregnant women: 18 mg
Nursing mothers: 17 mg
Vitamin B3 is mainly used as part of a B vitamin complex.