Vitamin B3, also known and sold as Niacin, is one of the next important members of the Vitamin B family. It aids in turning fats, proteins, and carbohydrates into energy for the body, and gives power to over 50 enzymes in the body. It is able to resist the power of alkalines and free radicals, as it is able to resist oxidization.

Of all of the effects B3 has on the system, it is most effective at helping to widen the arteries in the body, so the blod can flow more easily throught out the body. In addition, Niacin helps to lower the levels of bad cholesterol in the body. This helps to keep plaque from collecting in the arteries and reduces the risk of a heart attack.

B3 also helps to stabilize the nervous system, digestive system, and mental health. For healthy skin, it is important that B3 is at the right level in the human body, and it is used to make hormones like progesterone and testosterone. Luckily, B3 is water soluble, which means it is hard to build up a toxic level in the system. This also means that it is necessary to keep a certain level of B3 in the system, as well for proper body function. The body is able to produce a small amount of Niacin, but not enough to account for all of the Niacin that the body needs in a given day. If it is difficult to get the correct amount of Niacin in the system it is possible to purchase a supplement from a local vitamin store, like GNC.

Niacin is found in animal flesh and dairy products more so than it is found in plant products, like vegetables. Meats that are made from organs, such as kidney, liver, and brain, as well as milk are great sources of Niacin. It can also be found in seeds, certain nuts, rice, wheat products, beans, greens, yeast and even oat bran are great sources of Niacin.

Adults should consume about 15 milligrams of Niacin on a daily basis. Pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding may equie a bit more, and men may require 15-20 milligrams of Niacin on a dialy basis. Excess amounts of Niacin to an unaccustomed system may cause flushing. This is a natural eraction and just means that the body has not been accustomed to such levels of Niacin in the system.

Vitamin B3 deficiencies do happen occasionally. A person who lacks the necessary levels of Niacin may feel excess sleepiness, forget things often, or experience nausea and vomiting. Lack of B3 can also affect the diet and can lead to open sores in the mouth and increase in headaches, as well as troubles with the digestive system and trouble sleeping.

As this deficiency progresses, a condition called Pellagra may occur. Skin that is exposed to the sun on a daily basis may form a sore or lesion; this is characterized by skin problems, diarrhea, intestinal trouble, and even problems with the nervous system including but not limited to depression and anxiety. Niacin is an effective way of treating and preventing this condition.

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