What are the common side effects of niacin flush. How does niacin affect cholesterol levels. Is niacin flush harmful to your health. What precautions should you take when using niacin supplements. How can you minimize niacin flush symptoms. What are the recommended dosages for niacin supplementation. When should you consult a doctor about niacin use.

What Is Niacin Flush and Why Does It Occur?

Niacin flush is a common side effect experienced by individuals taking high doses of niacin supplements, particularly in the form of nicotinic acid. This phenomenon occurs when capillaries expand, increasing blood flow to the skin’s surface. While it can be uncomfortable, niacin flush is generally considered harmless.

The flush typically manifests as redness on the skin, often accompanied by a tingling, burning, or itching sensation. These symptoms usually appear 15-30 minutes after taking the supplement and subside within an hour. The face and upper body are the most commonly affected areas.

What causes niacin flush?

High doses of nicotinic acid trigger a response in the body that leads to the expansion of capillaries. This increased blood flow to the skin’s surface results in the characteristic flushing effect. It’s worth noting that not all forms of niacin supplements cause this reaction. For instance, niacinamide, another form of vitamin B3, doesn’t produce flushing but also doesn’t have the same beneficial effects on blood fats and cholesterol levels.

The Benefits of Niacin Supplementation for Cholesterol Management

Despite the potential discomfort of niacin flush, high-dose niacin supplements have been prescribed by doctors for decades to help improve cholesterol levels and prevent heart disease. The benefits of niacin on blood cholesterol and lipids include:

• Increasing HDL (good) cholesterol by up to 20-40%
• Reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol by 5-20%
• Lowering triglycerides by 20-50%

These positive effects on blood fats are typically observed when therapeutic doses of niacin in the range of 1,000-2,000 mg per day are taken. This is significantly higher than the recommended daily intake for most adults, which is 14-16 mg per day.

How does niacin improve cholesterol levels?

Niacin works through several mechanisms to improve cholesterol and triglyceride levels:

1. It prevents the breakdown of apolipoprotein A1, which is used to make HDL cholesterol.
2. It speeds up the breakdown of apolipoprotein B in LDL cholesterol, causing less to be released by the liver.
3. It interferes with an enzyme essential for making triglycerides, thereby lowering their levels in the blood.

Is Niacin Flush Harmful to Your Health?

While niacin flush itself is not harmful, high doses of niacin can potentially cause other, more serious side effects. These adverse effects are rare but can include liver damage and stomach cramping. It’s crucial to understand that niacin supplements should be treated like a drug and only taken under medical supervision due to the risk of side effects.

Are there any long-term risks associated with niacin supplementation?

Long-term use of high-dose niacin supplements may pose certain risks, particularly to liver health. Regular monitoring of liver function is typically recommended for individuals on niacin therapy. Additionally, niacin can interact with other medications and may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with pre-existing liver conditions or a history of gout.

How to Minimize Niacin Flush Symptoms

For those who experience niacin flush, there are several strategies to help minimize its effects:

• Start with a low dose and gradually increase it over time
• Take the supplement with meals
• Use extended-release formulations, which dissolve more slowly
• Avoid alcohol and hot beverages around the time of taking niacin
• Consider taking an aspirin 30 minutes before the niacin dose (consult with a doctor first)

It’s important to note that many people develop a tolerance to niacin over time, and the flush symptoms may decrease or disappear with continued use.

Niacin Supplementation: When and How to Use It Effectively

Niacin treatment is not typically the first line of defense against cholesterol problems due to its potential side effects. However, it may be prescribed in certain situations:

• For individuals whose cholesterol levels don’t respond adequately to statins
• As a complementary therapy alongside statins
• For patients who cannot tolerate statin medications

What are the recommended dosages for niacin supplementation?

The dosage of niacin for cholesterol management is significantly higher than the recommended daily intake for general health. Therapeutic doses typically range from 1,000 to 2,000 mg per day, divided into two or three doses. However, the specific dosage should always be determined by a healthcare provider based on individual needs and medical history.

The Different Forms of Niacin Supplements: Immediate vs. Extended Release

Niacin supplements come in two main forms: immediate release and extended release. Each has its own characteristics and potential benefits:

Immediate Release Niacin

This form is absorbed quickly by the body, leading to a more pronounced flush effect. However, it may be more effective in improving lipid profiles and is often less expensive.

Extended Release Niacin

This formulation has a special coating that allows for slower absorption, potentially reducing the intensity of the flush. However, it may have a higher risk of liver toxicity compared to the immediate-release form.

The choice between these forms should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, taking into account individual tolerance, medical history, and treatment goals.

Niacin vs. Other Cholesterol-Lowering Treatments: Comparing Effectiveness and Side Effects

While niacin can be effective in managing cholesterol levels, it’s important to consider how it compares to other treatment options, particularly statins, which are the most commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications.

How does niacin compare to statins in cholesterol management?

Statins are generally considered the first-line treatment for high cholesterol due to their proven efficacy and relatively low risk of side effects. Niacin, while effective, is often reserved for cases where statins are not sufficient or not well-tolerated. Here’s a brief comparison:

• Effectiveness: Both niacin and statins can significantly lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. However, niacin is more effective at raising HDL cholesterol.
• Side effects: Statins may cause muscle pain and rarely, muscle damage. Niacin’s main side effect is flushing, but it can also cause liver issues and glucose intolerance.
• Convenience: Statins are typically taken once daily, while niacin often requires multiple doses per day.

In some cases, niacin may be prescribed alongside statins for a more comprehensive approach to cholesterol management.

Understanding the Role of Niacin in Overall Health Beyond Cholesterol Management

While niacin is well-known for its effects on cholesterol, it plays numerous other important roles in maintaining overall health. As a key member of the B-vitamin complex, niacin is essential for various bodily functions.

What are the other health benefits of niacin?

Beyond its effects on lipid profiles, niacin contributes to:

• Energy production: Niacin helps convert food into energy by aiding in the function of enzymes involved in metabolism.
• DNA repair: It plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of genetic material.
• Nervous system function: Niacin is important for proper nervous system development and function.
• Skin health: Adequate niacin levels contribute to healthy skin and may help in the treatment of certain skin conditions.
• Antioxidant effects: Niacin has been shown to have antioxidant properties, potentially protecting cells from damage.

These diverse functions underscore the importance of maintaining adequate niacin levels through diet or supplementation under medical guidance.

When to Consult a Doctor About Niacin Use and Potential Side Effects

Given the potential for side effects and interactions with other medications, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting niacin supplementation, especially at high doses. Regular medical supervision is also important for those already taking niacin.

When should you seek medical attention while taking niacin?

While niacin flush is generally harmless, there are certain situations where medical attention should be sought:

• If you experience severe or prolonged flushing that doesn’t subside
• If you develop signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea
• If you experience severe stomach pain or rapid heartbeat
• If you notice any unexpected changes in your blood sugar levels, especially if you have diabetes
• If you’re planning to undergo surgery, as niacin can affect blood clotting

Regular check-ups and blood tests are typically recommended for individuals on high-dose niacin therapy to monitor liver function and lipid levels.

In conclusion, while niacin can be an effective tool in managing cholesterol levels and supporting overall health, it’s crucial to use it under medical supervision and be aware of potential side effects. Understanding the nature of niacin flush and how to manage it can help individuals make informed decisions about their health and treatment options. As with any supplement or medication, the benefits and risks should be carefully weighed on an individual basis in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Is Niacin Flush Harmful?

Niacin flush is a common side effect of taking high doses of supplemental niacin, which treats cholesterol problems. While harmless, its symptoms — skin that’s red, warm, and itchy — can be uncomfortable.

The symptoms of niacin flush can make people stop taking niacin (1). The good news is that you can reduce your likelihood of getting niacin flush.

This article describes what you need to know about niacin flush, including:

• what it is
• what causes it
• what you can do about it

Niacin flush is a common side effect of taking high doses of niacin supplements. It’s uncomfortable, but it’s harmless.

It appears as a flush of red on the skin, which may be accompanied by an itching or burning sensation (1).

Niacin is also known as vitamin B3. It’s part of the B complex of vitamins that play an essential role in turning food into energy for the body (2).

As a supplement, niacin is primarily used to treat high cholesterol levels. Nicotinic acid is the supplement form people usually use for this purpose.

The other supplemental form, niacinamide, doesn’t produce flushing. However, this form isn’t effective at altering blood fats, such as cholesterol (3).

There are two main forms of nicotinic acid supplements:

• immediate release, where the whole dose is absorbed at once
• extended release, which has a special coating that makes it dissolve more slowly

Niacin flush is a very common side effect of taking the immediate-release form of nicotinic acid. It’s so common that at least half of people who take high doses of immediate-release niacin supplements experience it (4, 5).

High doses of nicotinic acid trigger a response that causes your capillaries to expand, which increases the flow of blood to the skin’s surface (1, 6, 7, 8).

By some reports, virtually every person who takes high doses of nicotinic acid experiences flush (6).

Other medications, including some antidepressants and hormone replacement therapies (HRTs), can also trigger flush (1).

SUMMARY

Niacin flush is a common reaction to high doses of niacin. It happens when capillaries expand, increasing blood flow to the skin’s surface.

When niacin flush occurs, symptoms typically set in about 15–30 minutes after taking the supplement and taper off after about an hour.

The symptoms mainly affect the face and upper body, and include (9, 10):

• Reddening of the skin. It can appear as a mild flush or be red like a sunburn.
• Tingling, burning, or itching. This can feel uncomfortable or even painful (9).
• Skin that’s warm to the touch. As is the case with sunburn, skin may feel warm or hot to the touch (11).

People generally develop a tolerance to high-dose niacin. So even if you experience niacin flush when you first start taking it, that will probably stop in time (1, 8).

SUMMARY

Niacin flush can appear and feel much like a sunburn. However, symptoms typically go away after an hour. People usually develop a tolerance to the supplements over time.

Doctors have long prescribed high doses of niacin to help people improve their cholesterol levels and prevent heart disease (5).

Taking high doses of niacin has been shown to produce the following improvements in blood cholesterol and lipids:

• Increase HDL (good) cholesterol. It prevents the breakdown of apolipoprotein A1, which is used to make HDL (good) cholesterol. It can increase HDL (good) cholesterol by up to 20–40% (1, 12).
• Reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol. Niacin speeds the breakdown of apolipoprotein B in LDL (bad) cholesterol, causing less to be released by the liver. It can reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol by 5–20% (11, 13, 14).
• Lower triglycerides. Niacin interferes with an enzyme that’s essential for making triglycerides. It can lower triglycerides in the blood by 20–50% (3, 11).

People only experience these positive effects on blood fats when they take therapeutic doses of niacin in the range of 1,000–2,000 mg per day (5).

To put that in perspective, the recommended daily intake for most men and women is 14–16 mg per day (9, 10).

Niacin treatment isn’t typically the first line of defense against cholesterol problems, since it can cause side effects other than flush.

However, it’s often prescribed for people whose cholesterol levels don’t respond to statins, which are the preferred treatment (15).

It’s also sometimes prescribed to accompany statin therapy (16, 17, 18, 19).

Niacin supplements should be treated like a drug and only taken under medical supervision, since they can have side effects.

SUMMARY

High doses of niacin are typically used to improve cholesterol and triglyceride counts. They should only be taken under medical supervision, since they carry a risk of side effects.

Niacin flush is harmless.

However, high doses of niacin can cause other, more dangerous side effects, although these are rare (20).

The most harmful of these is liver damage. High doses of niacin may also cause stomach cramping, so don’t take them if you have a stomach ulcer or active bleeding (9, 21, 22, 23, 24).

You also shouldn’t take high doses if you’re pregnant since it’s considered a category C drug, meaning at high doses, it could cause birth defects (22).

Interestingly, although the flush isn’t harmful, people often cite it as the reason they want to discontinue their treatment (1).

And that in itself can be a problem, since if you don’t take niacin as it’s prescribed, it’s not at all effective at preventing heart disease.

According to reports, 5–20% of people who have been prescribed niacin stop using it because of flush (5).

If you’re experiencing niacin flush, or are concerned about it as a possible side effect of these supplements, tell your healthcare provider. They can help you figure out how to reduce the chances of flush or discuss alternative treatments.

Also, because there are other, more harmful side effects associated with taking these supplements, do not try self-medicating with niacin.

SUMMARY

Niacin flush is harmless. However, the supplements can have other harmful side effects, and certain people should not take them.

Here are the main strategies people use to prevent niacin flush:

• Try a different formula. Roughly 50% of people taking immediate-release niacin experience flushing, but extended-release niacin is less likely to cause it. And even when it does, symptoms are less severe and don’t last as long (1, 4, 11). However, extended-release forms may carry a greater risk of liver damage.
• Take aspirin. Taking 325 mg of aspirin 30 minutes before the niacin can help reduce the risk of flush. Antihistamines and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can also minimize the risk (5, 10, 25, 26).
• Ease into it. Some experts recommend starting with a smaller dose like 500 mg and then increasing to 1,000 mg gradually over the course of 2 months, before finally increasing to 2,000 mg. This strategy could bypass flush entirely (5).
• Have a snack. Try taking niacin with meals or with a low-fat evening snack (5).
• Eat an apple. Some early research suggests that eating an apple or applesauce prior to taking niacin may have a similar effect to aspirin. Pectin in apple seems to be responsible for the protective effect (10).

SUMMARY

Taking aspirin, eating a snack, slowly increasing the dosage, or switching formulas may help you prevent niacin flush.

As mentioned above, to avoid unwanted symptoms, including flushing, some people opt for extended-release or long-acting niacin.

However, extended-release and long-acting niacin differ from immediate-release niacin and may cause different health effects.

Long-acting niacin is associated with significantly reduced flushing, as it’s absorbed over a long time period that typically exceeds 12 hours. Because of this, taking long-acting niacin significantly reduced the chances of flushing (11).

However, because of the way the body breaks it down, taking long-acting niacin may have toxic effects on the liver, dependent on the dose taken (11).

Although uncommon, switching from an immediate-release niacin to a long-acting niacin or significantly increasing your dose can result in serious liver damage (27).

What’s more, niacin absorbability depends on the niacin supplement that you take.

For example, the body absorbs nearly 100% of nicotinic acid, which raises niacin blood levels to an optimal range in about 30 minutes.

In contrast, inositol hexanicotinate (IHN), a “no-flush” niacin, isn’t absorbed as well as nicotinic aid (28).

Its absorption rate varies widely, with an average of 70% being absorbed into the bloodstream.

Plus, IHN is significantly less effective than nicotinic acid at increasing serum niacin. IHN usually takes between 6-12 hours to raise blood levels of niacin to near the optimal range (28).

Some studies suggest that peak niacin blood levels can be over 100 times greater when supplementing with nicotinic acid compared to supplementing with IHN.

Research also shows that IHN has minimal effect on blood lipid levels (28).

Because absorbability can significantly vary depending on the form of niacin used, it’s a good idea to ask your healthcare provider what form would be best for your specific health needs.

summary

Absorbability differs between forms of niacin. Some types of niacin are more effective at raising blood levels than others.

Niacin flush can be an alarming and uncomfortable experience.

However, it’s actually a harmless side effect of high-dose niacin therapy. What’s more, it may be preventable.

That said, large doses of niacin can have other, more harmful side effects.

If you want to take high doses of niacin for health reasons, make sure to do so under medical supervision.

Why does it occur? Is it dangerous?

Niacin flush is a flushing of the skin that can occur after taking higher doses of niacin (vitamin B3) as supplements or prescription medications. A harmless and temporary side effect, it usually goes away without treatment in 1–2 hours.

People may also call niacin vitamin B3. Niacin may come in the form of nicotinic acid or nicotinamide.

In this article, we examine niacin flush and its associated symptoms. We also discuss why people may use niacin, whether it is harmful, and how to prevent niacin flush.

High doses of niacin can cause the skin to flush, and people may experience an itching or hot, prickly sensation on the skin. Although it may seem like an allergic reaction, it is not. Flushing may affect the face and upper body.

Flushing occurs from dilating blood vessels, which increases blood flow and causes the skin to redden or darken. The dilation of blood vessels may occur due to how niacin reacts with certain proteins within the skin, causing an increase in prostaglandins and the blood vessels to dilate.

Many people taking niacin may experience a niacin flush. People may experience flushing around 30 minutes after taking a high dose of niacin, such as 500 milligrams (mg) or above.

Symptoms of niacin flush may include:

• the skin on the face and upper body flushing
• itching, tingling, or prickly sensations on the skin
• a hot or burning sensation on the skin

Symptoms of niacin flush may clear within 1–2 hours of taking niacin.

People may find that symptoms of niacin flush are most intense when they first start taking high doses of niacin but may reduce with continued use.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends a daily niacin intake of 14 (milligrams) mg for adult females and 16 mg for adult males.

People may take high doses of niacin, such as 1,000 mg daily, to treat high cholesterol.

High doses of niacin may help lower the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with plaque buildup in the arteries.

High levels of niacin, as nicotinic acid, can help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol, raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol, and reduce triglyceride levels.

However, high doses of niacin are unsuitable for people taking statins.

Niacin flush is harmless. It may cause discomfort, but it doesn’t damage the body. This flushing will usually go away without treatment within 1–2 hours.

As people continue to take niacin, they may find that the intensity of niacin flush reduces.

According to the NIH, niacin supplements of 30 mg or more may cause headaches, rashes, or dizziness.

Taking high doses of niacin of 1,000 mg or more without the approval of a doctor may have harmful side effects, such as:

• low blood pressure, which may increase the risk of falling
• fatigue
• high blood sugar levels
• nausea
• heartburn
• abdominal pain
• blurred vision and buildup of fluid in the eyes

Inositol nicotinate, or inositol hexanicotinate, is a combination of a form of niacin and inositol, a type of sugar that occurs in the body.

Retailers may sell inositol nicotinate as “no-flush” niacin. It may reduce flushing symptoms compared with other forms of niacin, as the body takes longer to break it down. Inositol nicotinate also lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and increases HDL cholesterol.

Other sources suggest that although inositol nicotinate reduces or prevents flushing, it may not provide the body with high enough levels of niacin to lower cholesterol.

Niaspan is a prescription, slow-release form of nicotinic acid. It may reduce flushing and still provide benefits for lowering cholesterol. However, it may be more expensive than other forms of niacin.

Niaspan releases niacin more slowly but over a shorter period than other extended-release forms. This means there is less pressure on the liver to process niacin, reducing the risk of liver damage.

If people take immediate-release niacin with food, it may help decrease the intensity of niacin flush symptoms.

People may also find they can minimize flushing by starting with a lower dose of niacin and gradually working up to higher doses over the following weeks.

For example, individuals may take 100 mg of niacin twice daily with meals for the first week, then double the daily amount each week until they reach the prescribed amount. People can discuss with a healthcare professional whether this is safe for them.

According to a 2017 study, taking aspirin alongside niacin may help reduce the effects of flushing.

People can speak with a healthcare professional about the safety of taking aspirin or other medications alongside prescription niacin.

Niacin occurs naturally in many foods, including:

• poultry
• fish
• legumes
• fortified foods, such as cereals and bread

According to the NIH, niacin supplements come in two main forms: nicotinic acid and nicotinamide.

Nicotinic acid is the form of niacin that doctors prescribe to treat high cholesterol.

Extended-release nicotinic acid releases niacin more slowly into the body over an extended period. Long-term use of high niacin doses and extended-release forms of nicotinic acid may cause liver damage, including hepatitis and liver failure.

Nicotinamide may not cause as many side effects as nicotinic acid. However, doses of 500 mg or more each day may cause diarrhea, easy bruising, and increased wound bleeding.

Doses of 3,000 mg or more daily may cause nausea, vomiting, and liver damage.

Niacin flush is the skin flushing after taking high doses of niacin. Most people will experience this side effect.

People may take higher doses of prescription niacin to treat high cholesterol. Without supervision from a doctor, high doses of niacin may cause harmful side effects.

Niacin flush may also cause a tingling, pricking, or burning sensation and may affect the skin on the face and upper body. It is harmless and usually resolves without intervention within a few hours.

The intensity of niacin flush may vary with different forms of niacin. People may find that increasing dosage slowly to the prescribed amount or taking niacin with food may help reduce symptoms.

zastosuvannya, side effects, guarded by vikoristannya, melancholy and bad health

Nicotinic acid (niacin) is a water-soluble vitamin, belongs to the family of B vitamins, which is found in many tissues of animals and plants, has antihyperlipidemic activity. Niacin is converted to its active form, niacinamide, which is a component of the coenzymes nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and its phosphate form, NADP. These coenzymes play an important role in tissue respiration and the metabolism of glycogen, lipids, amino acids, proteins, and purine. Although the exact mechanism of action by which nicotinic acid lowers cholesterol levels is not well understood, this substance may act by inhibiting very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) synthesis, inhibiting the release of free fatty acids from adipose tissue, increasing lipoprotein lipase activity, and decreasing hepatic synthesis. VLDL-C and LDL-C.

Niacin, also known as nicotinic acid and vitamin B3, is a water-soluble, essential B vitamin that, when given in high doses, is effective in lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, due to which this remedy acquires unique values ​​in the treatment of dyslipidemia. Niacin can cause mild to moderate elevations in serum aminotransferase levels, and high doses of certain forms of niacin are associated with clinically apparent, acute liver injury that can be both severe and fatal.

Niacin (nicotinic acid) is used to prevent and treat niacin deficiency (pellagra). Niacin deficiency can result from certain medical conditions (eg, alcohol abuse, malabsorption syndrome, Hartnup’s disease), poor diet, or long-term use of certain medications (eg, isoniazid).

Products containing vitamin B3

• avocado
• broccoli
• tomatoes
• mushrooms
• asparagus
• carrots
• rice
• legumes
• spinach
• sweet potato

Niacin deficiency can cause diarrhea, confusion (dementia), redness/swelling of the tongue, and scaling of hard red skin. Nicotinic acid helps support the body’s ability to produce and break down natural compounds (metabolism) needed for good health. Niacinamide (nicotinamide) is another form of vitamin B3, but it does not work in the same way as niacin.

Side effects of niacin use

Face and neck irritation, headache, itching, burning, sweating, chills or tingling may occur within 20 minutes to 4 hours after taking this drug. Irritation may continue for several hours. These effects should fade or fade as your body adjusts to the medication. Indigestion, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Veterinary Niacin

Like most animals, dogs can synthesize a certain amount of niacin from the essential amino acid tryptophan. The tryptophan metabolite can be formed in one of two ways: it can be formed by picolinic carboxylase, or it can be used to produce nicotinamide. Cats, unlike dogs, are not able to synthesize significant amounts of niacin from tryptophan because they have a very high activity of the enzyme picolinic carboxylase, which leads to the rapid catabolism of tryptophan. Thus, cats require a diet of pre-prepared niacin.

Dietary sources of nicotinic acid

Niacin occurs naturally in meat and legumes. Dietary niacin is commonly found in the form of nicotinic acid in plant materials, and as NAD or NADP in animal materials. Some wholegrain cereals, such as corn and sorghum, have a relatively high niacin content, but in these products, niacin is concentrated in the seed and germ layers and has poor bioavailability (i.e., bound within the cell), making the feed a poor source of dietary niacin. Niacin is also sensitive to heat breakdown and commercial feed additives are needed to keep it stable.

Diagnosis of niacin deficiency

Diagnosis of niacin deficiency can be made using the nicotinamide test, which measures urinary excretion of niacin metabolites, the test itself takes place in veterinary control laboratories. Diagnosis is also made by clinical signs, appropriate deficiency and dietary assessment.

The role of nicotinic acid in the animal body

Such a famous “nicotine” and its nootropic effect – Nooteria Labs on vc.ru

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We tell you what vitamin B3 is, in what processes it is involved and how it affects the neuroplasticity of the brain.

Welcome to the Nooteria Labs blog! We are a manufacturer of complex supplements for an active life.

Nicotinic acid has been known for a long time and even for some time was considered an obsolete substance with an incomprehensible effect. Inexpensive ampoule “nicotine” in folk recipes was suggested to be rubbed into the scalp to improve hair growth. But the beneficial effects of the vitamin do not end there. Science does not stand still and the drug is experiencing a rebirth, more and more studies are being created on its effect on nerve cells under stress, the exchange of “bad” lipids and the work of the heart muscle. We understand with Nooteria Labs how and when nicotinic acid benefits.

Old new nicotine

Nicotinic acid (niacin, vitamin PP, vitamin B3) is a substance that takes part in many redox processes of the body, participating in the synthesis of enzymes, the metabolism of macro- and micronutrients. It is used as a medicine and as a dietary supplement.

The term “niacin” is used for nicotinic acid and its derivatives. Nicotinamide or niacinamide is the amide of niacin, known to chemists since 1867, when it was first isolated from the oxidation of nicotine. However, its metabolic role as a vitamin was investigated later, in the 1940s, and its nutritional significance even later.

The popular name “nicotine” has taken root only in Russian-speaking countries, as it forms a stable association with nicotine and smoking, which, of course, is not the case.

Niacin is one of the most stable water-soluble vitamins. It is rapidly absorbed in the upper part of the small intestine, enters the circulatory system and enters the cells, where it is included in the composition of coenzymes. Excess niacin is excreted in the urine. About ⅔ of the vitamin absorbed by the body is synthesized in the body from tryptophan.

How hunger and poverty helped to understand the importance of B3

Corn is a thousand-year basis of the diet of the population of the Mediterranean region and countries of South America. Favorite, diverse in cooking, unpretentious in breeding plant. In conditions of poverty and a shortage of protein foods, corn saved millions of people from starvation. However, it is the only mass-consumed crop with a critically low niacin content. For the Spanish peasants there was no rare disease, which they called mal de la rosa, the extreme degree of which was a triad of symptoms: diarrhea, dermatitis, dementia (progressive mental weakness), eventually leading to death. In 1771, Frapolli first described this pathology under the term “pellagra” (Italian pelle and agra – “rough skin”).

Pellagra was originally thought to be caused by toxins from poor-quality or spoiled corn. In 1917, scientists conducted experiments with a diet that included or excluded corn, and it was assumed that the cause of the disease was a lack of some nutrient. But what? In 1937, scientists were helped by veterinarians who treated dogs for a similar disease by fortifying the diet with proteins, and they noticed the similarity of symptoms. Nicotinic acid has been shown to be effective in both black tongue in dogs and pellagra in humans.

Now the enrichment of cereal crops with niacin and the availability of vitamin complexes have led to the virtual disappearance of pellagra in the population, with the exception of the poorest countries.

Where is niacin found? Spoiler: eat coarse grains with meat

Niacin is found in small amounts in most foods, but is abundant in whole wheat, rye, legumes, meat, poultry, and peanuts. Coffee lovers can sleep peacefully – coffee contains a large amount of niacin. However, we keep in mind that with the frequent use of alcohol, a deficiency of niacin is formed, at least partially.

Up to 90% of vitamin B3 is contained in the outer shell of the grain, so it is better to use coarse grains.

Some foods, such as milk, eggs, certain vegetables and fruits, are low in niacin but do not lead to B3 deficiency. Why is that?

Not all diets low in niacin lead to pellagra

This strange discrepancy was explained back in 1945 by a group of scientists from the Wisconsin Research Group. They found that not only niacin, but also tryptophan is effective in treating pellagra; later it was found that tryptophan is a precursor of niacin. Therefore, the human body is not completely dependent on dietary sources of B3, as it can be synthesized from tryptophan.

Interesting facts:

– 1 mg niacin will be synthesized from 60 mg of tryptophan.

– The efficiency of the tryptophan → niacin transition depends on nutrition and hormonal status. So, in the III trimester of pregnancy, this transition is 3 times faster than . The same speed of processes in women taking contraceptives. This is due to the fact that estrogens stimulate the work of tryptophan oxygenase.

– With a deficiency of vitamin B6 , the synthesis of niacin is also impaired.

An unfortunate coincidence: corn is poor not only in niacin, but also in tryptophan. In South America, this problem is solved by treating corn with lime water.

But other factors also influence the formation of a lack of niacin and tryptophan:

• Treatment with serious drugs for tuberculosis and leukemia;
• Excessive consumption of leucine, which inhibits the synthesis of niacin from tryptophan;
• Genetic pathologies such as Hartnap’s disease. This is a rare disease that masquerades as pellagra, but is based on a different mechanism – a genetic defect in the absorption and metabolism of tryptophan.

What processes does niacin involve

Nicotinic acid is a component of the coenzymes NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and NADP (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide

phosphate).

Therefore, the function of niacin in the body is impressive:

• Participates in energy metabolism, that is, the processes of breakdown and synthesis of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Organs with a high energy requirement (brain) or with a high turnover rate (gut, skin) are usually the most susceptible to coenzyme deficiencies;
• Increases the sensitivity of cells to insulin, influencing the glucose tolerance factor, therefore it can be used as a prevention of diabetes and its consequences;
• Reduces the level of “bad” fats in the blood plasma in large doses and prevents the formation of cholesterol plaques, that is, it has an antihyperlipidemic effect. It lowers the levels of all atherogenic lipoproteins, increases the level of protective lipoproteins more than any other drug. The positive and negative effects in combination with statins are studied in many studies. And more recently, the discovery of a specific nicotinic acid receptor was evidence that the drug stimulates the expression of the membrane cholesterol transporter ABCA-1. This looks promising for the long term use of this acid;
• Supports the stability of carbohydrate metabolism (glycogenolysis), including in the central nervous system;
• Slows down the aging of cells of the nervous system and demyelination of nerve fibers. Niacin-mediated macrophage/microglia rejuvenation enhances remyelination (repair of myelinated fibers) of the aging central nervous system;
• Dilates intracranial vessels and constricts extracranial vessels, affecting tension headaches and migraine;
• Restores mitochondrial energy metabolism, including in the brain, which is especially important in the development of oxidative stress.

Thus, in recent years, the neuroprotective and neurorestorative role of vitamin B3 in brain injury has been extensively studied in various in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Vitamin B3 dosage forms

Niacin is non-toxic. It is a pyridine derivative with a carboxyl group (COOH) in the 3rd position.

Another form of vitamin B3 is nicotinamide. It includes the corresponding amide, where the carboxyl group is replaced by a carboxamide group (CONH 2). There are also more complex amides and esters. Nicotinic acid and nicotinamide are mutually convertible compounds. But niacin has the ability to dilate blood vessels, while nicotinamide does not, nor does it affect cholesterol levels. Therefore, it is this form that is used in dietary supplements to correct the deficiency and potentiate the nootropic effect.

The human requirement for vitamin B3 is expressed in niacin equivalents: 1 equivalent is equal to 1 mg of nicotinic acid or 60 mg of L-tryptophan.

The requirement of a healthy person for niacin is 6.5 mg per 1000 kcal (4187 kJ) of energy expenditure or 15-25 mg per day. The amount of niacin formed in the human body is small, and most of it must come from food.

The average daily intake of niacin in different countries varies and ranges from 12-40 mg. In Russia, this is about 13-15 mg. At the same time is recommended from 20 mg per day in the presence of a deficiency of , and it occurs quite quickly: with heavy physical work, pregnancy and feeding, taking certain medications (for example, sulfanilamide drugs, antibiotics).

It is easy to calculate that if animal protein contains an average of 1.4% tryptophan, and vegetable protein about 1%, then with the intake of 60 g of protein per day with food, it will provide about 600 mg of tryptophan, which is equal to 10 mg of niacin. Therefore, in order to have an adequate level of tryptophan and niacin in the body, it is necessary to maintain an extremely healthy lifestyle with a rich and varied type of diet.

Side effects of niacin occur predominantly at high doses. As you know, the main principle of medicine is Primum non nocere, that is, “First of all, do no harm.” Do not harm yourself, do not take uncontrolled and isolated active substances. Use trusted sources, medicines or supplements that have verified ingredients and dosages.

B3 for brain function

We have already found out that the work of vitamin B3 in the central nervous system and its neuroprotective role has been sufficiently studied. It and its derivatives are recognized as key mediators of neuronal development and survival.

Niacin is a team player. With his friends, the B vitamins, he works more smoothly and efficiently.

If we are talking about increasing the activity and productivity of the brain, that is, a nootropic effect, then he prefers the command support of riboflavin, thiamine, magnesium ions, nicotinic acid, carnitine, coenzyme Q10, melatonin, lipoic acid, pyridoxine, folic acid and cobalamin. Supplements may well complement a normal healthy diet, which should be tailored to individual needs.

The Nooteria Labs line includes MindBooster , a multicomponent nootropic complex that includes vitamins B3, B5, B12, as well as adaptogens and caffeine. It has chosen a combination of substances and dosages so that they become the basis for proper metabolism and maintenance of brain function. MindBooster does not spur the body on, but provides additional resources in today’s active life.

When and who needs niacin as a supplement?

Rhythm of society, unhealthy diet, fad diets contribute to the development of vitamin B deficiencies. Niacin supplements are useful:

• Athletes – to increase endurance, but not exhausted after training; during competitions to show the best result;
• People with a high mental load, when there are many important decisions to be made, and the nervous system is at its limit;
• People intensively learning new skills, especially older people;
• For young mothers experiencing serious nervous and physical stress in conditions of exhaustion of the body after pregnancy

To summarize

Thus, nicotinamide affects many intracellular systems.