Niacin
Niacin, also known as vitamin B-3, assists in several bodily functions including: the production of hormones, the removal of bodily toxins, and energy metabolism. Although niacin is plentiful in many types of foods, a doctor will sometimes prescribe a niacin supplement for conditions associated with niacin deficiency or high blood pressure. Bellow, are a few of the most basic questions about niacin and their answers. If you are considering using niacin supplements you may find them helpful. However, the final word on whether or not you need niacin supplements or have a niacin deficiency related problem should come from a licensed doctor.
Why do I need Niacin?
Niacin is what is called a "water-soluble" vitamin. This not only means that it can be dissolved in water, but also that the body cannot store it for long periods of time. Excess niacin that the body does not use is regularly flushed out through urination. Therefore it is important to have a constant ongoing intake of niacin in your diet.
Not only does niacin play an essential part in the metabolism of energy within bodily cells, but it also assists in the repair of DNA molecules. And beyond the cellular level, niacin also helps the body to transport toxic chemicals from the body by increasing the width of blood cells and thereby reducing cholesterol levels. Niacin has also been shown to be a major component in the production of various hormones including steroids, sex-hormones, and stress releasing hormones.
How can I make sure that I have enough Niacin?
Niacin is a readily available part of most diets and can be attained through omnivorous, vegetarian and vegan meals alike. Niacin can be found in meat products such as beef, chicken, and fish (especially organ meats such as hearts, livers, and kidneys); as well as in vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, avocadoes and leafy vegetables. Nuts, dairy products, eggs, and several other common foods are also good sources of niacin.
However, in the case that you have a niacin deficiency, you may also want to take niacin supplements in pill form. However, since niacin is known to cause severe side effects if taken in excess, you should consult with a medical professional before beginning to take niacin supplements.
What are Niacin's medicinal uses?
Niacin will sometimes be prescribed by a doctor as a means for treating high cholesterol. When taken in large doses, niacin will prevent certain types of fats, including LDL cholesterol (the type of cholesterol that doctors generally say you should avoid) from being broken down into the blood stream. In this way the overall cholesterol level of the bloodstream is lowered.
Niacin may also be used to treat a disease called "pellagra" which is caused directly by niacin deficiency. This disease generally only occurs in parts of the world in which niacin is not a normal part of the everyday diet. This is most common when corn is the staple diet of a society, since corn is the only grain grown for human consumption that does not contain niacin. The major symptoms of pellagra are skin inflammation, inflammation of the digestive tract, and mental instability.
Another use for niacin that we could call "pseudo-medical" is the technique of consuming large amounts of niacin right before a drug test in order to obtain an incorrect result. However, in reality, this method is not really reliable. Rather than affecting the results of a drug test, taking large amounts of niacin at one time is more likely to instead cause painful side effects.
Do Niacin supplements have any side effects?
Taking large amounts of niacin on a consistent basis may result in side effects. Generally speaking, the likelihood that side effects will surface is greatest if the patient is taking at least 1.5 grams of niacin daily. This is about ten times the normal dietary intake.
The most common side effect that is experienced is a flushing (redness) of the skin, especially around the face and neck. This can sometimes also be accompanied by dryness of skin, itching, and rashes. The flushing is largely a result of an increase in the size of arteries, leading to increased blood flow, and is usually harmless. This side effect can often be decreased or avoided by eating a meal directly before taking niacin, or taking a "slow release" form of niacin.
Indigestion is also a common complaint. In more severe cases liver problems, heart problems, and birth defects may also surface. These side effects are usually associated with doses of 2 grams or more.
How much do Niacin supplements cost?
Niacin supplements are generally fairly affordable. However, you will still want to contact your doctor before beginning niacin treatment. This is especially true if you are nursing or pregnant, as even medium sized doses of niacin have been known to cause birth defects in some cases.
