Niacin and Its Benefits

Niacin is also known as Vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid. This B vitamin contains many important health benefits. A few of them are listed below.

 

One of the most commonly known niacin benefits is the ability of this vitamin to help lower LDL cholesterol and to increase HDL cholesterol to appropriate levels. It appears to be important to use the regular form of niacin and not the flush-free niacinimide in order to get this effect. Scientists have done a great deal of research about this important benefit.

 

Another important role that niacin plays is prevention of the dreaded disease pellagra. This problem causes red, scaly skin and other symptoms. This disease can happen when someone is nutritionally deficient. Niacin can prevent or reverse the problem.

 

Among the most crucial niacin benefits is the conversion of food to energy in the body. Niacin also helps keep skin in good condition, aids in sex hormone production, and assists both digestion and the central nervous system.

 

Regular niacin can cause a flushing effect in some people in which there is some temporary reddening of the skin and possibly itching. Depending upon the reason for supplementation, flush-free niacin can work well for certain individuals. Reactions can vary, but are mild in most people and are often considered to be a sign that the niacin is “working.”

 

Niacin can be found in many foods such as meat, eggs, milk, certain fish including salmon and tuna, asparagus, brewer’s yeast, sweet potatoes, carrots and broccoli. If a person does not get enough niacin through a good diet, it may be wise to take a supplement. It is important to take a safe dose. A doctor can provide good advice regarding the appropriate dose for an individual to consume based on that person’s health and nutritional requirements.