Vitamin B3, Niacin, Nicotinamide or Niacinamide - Facts and Resouce
Vitamin B3, Niacin
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Essential for a healthy nervous system and for the productionof sex hormones, vitamin B3 is present in a number of foods and can also be made in your body from an amino acid called tryptophan.
How it works
Like Vitamins B1 and B2, niacin is essential for the release of energy from food and the use of oxygen in cells. It helps to maintain healthy skin, nerves, digestive system and brain function. Niacin also helps to balance blood sugar and cholesterol levels, increases circulation and reduces blood pressure, and is thought to protect against some forms of heart disease. B3 Vitamin takes the form of nicotinic acid, which can cause flushing, and nicotinamide or niacinamide, which does not.
DeficiencySymptoms
Poor memory
Anxiety or depression
Headaches
Fatigue
Eczema
Diarrhoea
Remedies
Mind and emotions Studies have shown that people with a low level of niacin are more likely to suffer from depression and poor self-esteem. Niacin therapy is commonly used in cases of acute schizophrenia.
Healthy heart Megadoses of niacin taken under medical supervision have been shown to reduce blood cholesterol. Because it reduces high blood pressure and increases circulation, it is valuable in maintaining a healthy heart.
Digestive problems Niacin helps to keep your digestive system healthy and can ease attacks of diarrhoea.
Arthritis Supplements of B3 vitamin have been shown to increase mobility and reduce inflammation.
Alcoholism Niacin supplements can help to reduce alcohol craving and normalize sleeping patterns.
Precautions
High doses of niacin may cause liver malfunction, flushing andheadaches. Do not take more than 100mg unless under medicalsupervision. Pregnant women, people with diabetes and thosesuffering from liver disorders, stomach ulcers or gout should not take megadoses of vitamin B3.
Niacin is beneficial for a rangeof health problems and is widely used in the treatment of mentalillness.
Vitamin B3, Niacin, Vital Facts
Recommended daily allowance for adults: 18mg
Main functions:
Helps maintain mental health
Releases energy from food
Promotes proper growth and development
Good for the heart and circulation
Sources:
Many foods contain vitamin B3 and fortified breakfast cereals are a good source for children. The more food is processed - by chopping, preserving or cooking - the more the niacin content is depleted.
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