What is Vitamine B3 (niacine)

Vitamin B3 plays a role in the body’s energy supply and the production of fatty acids. We don’t just get this vitamin from food. The body can also produce it from the amino acid tryptophan, which is found in proteins.

Functions of What is Vitamin B3

Antioxidant: Vitamin B3 is particularly involved in the liver in combating so-called free radicals.

Blood sugar levels: Together with chromium, vitamin B3 is responsible for the Glucose Tolerance Factor. This substance, along with insulin, regulates blood sugar levels.

Cells: The functioning of more than 200 enzymes depends in part on vitamin B3. Energy production in the body is essential without vitamin B3. It also plays an important role in maintaining the health of the skin, muscles, and nervous and digestive systems.

Cholesterol: Vitamin B3 has a positive effect on various fat levels in the blood, including bad LDL cholesterol. At the same time, vitamin B3 increases healthy HDL cholesterol.

Foods rich in What is Vitamin B3

Meat, fish, vegetables, potatoes, and whole grains contain vitamin B3. However, a large portion of the vitamin B3 found in grain products is not available for absorption. It is bound to certain carbohydrates and proteins.

Causes of deficiencies

Medications: Certain medications can cause a vitamin B3 deficiency.

Diet: A vitamin B3 deficiency can develop within two to four weeks if the diet contains too little vitamin B3 or tryptophan.

Illness: The breakdown of proteins during illness and fever, as well as serious injuries and burns, increases the need for vitamin B3.

Application

Atherosclerosis: Vitamin B3 can improve the balance of various blood fats, lowering bad LDL cholesterol and raising good HDL cholesterol. It also lowers blood pressure by widening blood vessels.

Arthritis: Vitamin B3 can support the treatment of arthritis, with positive results reported for knee arthritis in particular.

Diabetes: High blood sugar levels are partly regulated by vitamin B3.

Headaches: Headaches resulting from premenstrual symptoms or migraines can benefit from vitamin B3.

Consequences of a disturbed What is vitamin B3 balance:

• Red, flaky skin (especially sun-exposed areas).
• Inflamed, painful tongue. Chapped lips.
• Fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and depression.
• Decreased appetite and bloating.

Daily amount

Recommended daily amount of vitamin B3 (milligrams).