Vitamin B3

/Niacin/

Introduction

Vitamin B3, also known as Niacin, is an important nutrient that plays a central role in many cellular processes in the body. It is essential for maintaining a healthy skin, nervous system and digestive system. B3 is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning the body cannot store it and it is necessary to obtain sufficient amounts through diet or supplements.

FAQ

Function

Vitamin B3 is involved in a range of important functions in the body. It is critical for the production of energy in the body, as it helps to convert food into fuel that cells can use. Additionally, vitamin B3 plays an important role in maintaining a healthy cholesterol level and regulating blood sugar levels.

How much Vitamin B3 should you eat in a day?

The daily recommended intake of vitamin B3 depends on gender and age.

Women: 15 NE
Men: 18 NE

Pregnant: + 1-2 NE
Breastfeeding: + 4-5 NE

Vulnerable groups of Vitamin B3 deficiency

A lack of vitamin B3 is often seen in connection with diets based on food made from corn or other cereal products with low protein content.




Signs of Vitamin B3 deficiency

Lack of vitamin B3 can lead to a range of symptoms such as:

Skin problems
Diarrhea
Irritability
Depression
Memory loss

Severe deficiency of it can result in a condition called pellagra, which can cause rashes, dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia.

Are you blushing? Or is it just the 'niacin-flush'?

A fun fact about vitamin B3 is that in high doses, it can dilate blood vessels and cause a sensation of warmth and redness in the skin, known as "niacin flush." This phenomenon has been used therapeutically to treat high cholesterol and improve blood flow.

×