Vitamin B3

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Categories: Vitamin

Type: Compound
Vitamin: B3
Name: Niacin, Niacinamide
RDA:20 mg

Importance- to Body:
Constituent of NAD and NADP (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate), coenzymes involved in glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, fat breakdown; inhibits cholesterol synthesis.
Distribution- in Body:
Simple organic compounds stable to acids, alkalis, heat, light, oxidation (even boiling does not decrease potency); very limited amount stored in body, day-to-day supply is desirable; excess excreted in urine.
Excess Effects:
Result of mega doses; Hyperglycemia; Vasodilation leading to flushing of skin, Tingling Sensations; Liver Damage, Gout.
Deficiency Effects:
Pellagra after months of deprivation (rare in U.S.); early signs are vague: Listlessness, Headache, Weight Loss, Loss of Appetite; Progresses to soreness and redness of tongue and lips; Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Dermatitis
Food Sources:
Poultry, Meat, Fish
Lesser Sources: Liver, Yeast, Peanuts, Potatoes, Leafy-Green Vegetables
Environmental/Geographic Sources:
None listed
Supplemental information:

Synonyms:
Niacin, Niacinamide
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