Vitamin B3, also known as Niacin, is a water soluble
vitamin. It is not stored in the body, so we need to consume it daily. We need niacin for proper digestive function. Vitamin B3(Niacinamide) is needed to metabolize food into energy. Niacinamide is converted into the coenzymes nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and NADP, which function in oxidation-reduction reactions essential for release of energy from carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Niacin can also be synthesized by the body from tryptophan, although with low efficiency.
Deficiency Symptoms:
- Anorexia
- Muscular fatigue
- Indigestion
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Glossitis
- Skin Lesions
Severe Deficiency Symptoms:
- Pellagra
- Dermatitis
- Dementia
- Diarrhea
- Tremors and Sores
Repletion Information:
Dietary sources of niacinamide are expressed as niacin equivalents, taking into account tryptophan's contribution. Richest sources (per serving) include:
- Nutritional Supplements
- Meats
- Enriched Cereals
- Nutritional Yeasts
- Legumes (including peanuts)
- Potatoes
Case study where a patient demonstrated a deficiency in vitamin Bs, click here to read, also you can download a copy of the Nutrient correlation chart on Dyslipidemia and Insomnia
Interested in finding your micronutrient levels, please click here
