Vitamin B3 , also commonly called niacin, is a family member of the vitamin B complex. Significant amounts of vitamin B3 are found in corn, but these quantities can be directly absorbed by maize and maize products only, which are prepared in a way that generates this vitamin absorption. There are several different chemical forms of vitamin B3, which include nicotinic acid and nicotinamide.
Vitamin B3 Functions
- Energy production - like other B-complex vitamins, niacin is important for energy production. Two unique forms of vitamin B3 - nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate are essential to making the information contained in the body protein, fat and carbohydrates into usable energy. B3 is also used to synthesize starch that can be stored in the body in the muscles and liver for eventual use as an energy source.
- Metabolism of fat - Vitamin B3 plays an important role in the chemical processing of fats in the body. Fat-containing structures in the body (such as cell membranes), usually require the presence of vitamin B3 for their synthesis.
Although B3 is required for the production of cholesterol in the liver, it has been used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood too.
- Maintenance of genetic processes - primary components of genetic material in our cells, called DNA, require vitamin B3 for their production.
- Regulation of insulin - vitamin B3 affects blood sugar and regulates the function of the insulin hormone, as included in the metabolism.
Vitamin B3 Deficiency
Because of its unique role in energy production, deficiency of vitamin B3 is often associated with general weakness, muscular weakness and lack of appetite. Skin infections and digestive problems can also be associated with a deficiency of niacin.
Permissible limit (UL) for niacin intake of 35 milligrams, which applies to men and women 19 and older and is limited to niacin, which is obtained from dietary supplements.
Vitamin B3 is a stable water soluble vitamin and is minimally susceptible to damage caused by air, light and heat.
Intestinal problems, including chronic diarrhea and inflammatory bowel disease can trigger a deficiency of vitamin B3. As part of the delivery of B3 comes from the conversion of the amino acids tryptophan, tryptophan deficiency may also increase the risk of deficiency of vitamin B3. Physical trauma, all stress and excessive consumption of alcohol are also associated with an increased risk of niacin deficiency.
Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and anti-TB drugs reduce the presence of vitamin B3 in your body too.
Vitamin B3 Benefits
Vitamin B3 may play an important role in the prevention and / or treatment of the following: AIDS, hyperactivity, inflammatory bowel disease, insomnia, multiple sclerosis, menstrual pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, taste disorders and more.
Dietary supplements that focus on reducing cholesterol and fat in your metabolism typically include vitamin B3 in the form of nicotinic acid. Vitamin B3 as nicotinamide is also a widely available supplement.
Excellent source of vitamin B3 are mushrooms and tuna. Very good sources include: beef liver, halibut, asparagus, sea kelp, venison, chicken and salmon.
