Effective Dosage: There is currently no clinical evidence that Niacin is effective as a weight loss supplement at any dosage. The RDA for Niacin is 13-18mg for adults.
Niacin, also known as nicotinic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin. It is one of the eight B complex vitamins. These include vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, folate, biotin, and pantothenic acid. Niacin works closely with vitamin B1, B2, B6, pantothenic acid, and biotin to break the carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in food down into energy. Without niacin, the body would not be able to convert the food we eat into energy. Niacin also helps enzymes function in the body. Enzymes are used by the body in many reactions. Niacin helps keep the skin, digestive tract, and nerves healthy, is necessary for thyroid hormone production, and
is a part of glucose tolerance factor, which releases every time blood sugar rises.
In recent years, niacin has been used with some success to treat people with high cholesterol levels. The high dose required to bring about any change in cholesterol, up to 3,000 mg per day, can bring on side effects. Common side effects include flushing of the skin and itching. High doses of niacin may also cause liver damage or stomach ulcers. Because of these potentially dangerous side effects, niacin should only be used to control cholesterol when prescribed by a doctor.
Niacin (Vitamin B3) tends to be found in foods that are good sources of protein such as red meat, poultry, fish and nuts, although potatoes, pasta and yeast extract also contain this vitamin. Some foods such as bread and breakfast cereals are also fortified with niacin. The body is also able to make niacin from an amino acid (protein building block) called tryptophan. This means foods that are a good source of tryptophan such as eggs, milk, cheese and yoghurt, can contribute to recommended intakes for niacin.
These statements about Niacin have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Niacin is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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