What is Vitamin B3?
Vitamin B3 or Niacin is one of the vitamin B group members and it is an essential substance for the body. Niacin is one of the three forms of this vitamin. Vitamin B3 is involved in proper cell metabolism, DNA synthesis and repair, proper functioning of the nervous system and conversion of micronutrients into energy. Vitamin B3 is water-soluble, meaning the body cannot store it, and the excess niacin will be excreted in the urine.
Vitamin B3 deficiency
People who their nutrition are limited in variety and quantity due to illness, poverty, or the unavailability of natural foods, are prone to vitamin B3 deficiency. Also countries that use corn as a staple food, can get Pellagra (a skin disease caused by a lack of niacin in the body). Alcoholism reduces the absorption of B vitamins, including niacin. Carcinoid syndrome converts the vitamin niacin into serotonin and causes niacin deficiency in the body.
Symptoms of vitamin B3 deficiency
B vitamins, including B3, are vital for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Deficiency of these vitamins leads to depression. Common symptoms of niacin deficiency include:
muscle cramps, nausea, anxiety and skin problems, indigestion, fatigue, mouth sores, swollen tongue, scaling and cracking of the skin, and depression. Over time, excessive deficiency of this vitamin can lead to dementia.
Taking too much niacin through food does not cause problems, but taking too much of it through medication can cause skin inflammation and liver problems.
Foods rich in vitamin B3
Foods such as enriched breads and cereals, Beets, Sunflower seeds, Peanuts, Liver Fish, Eggs, Chickens and Lean meat are good sources of niacin.
NBS Superfood, natural source of Vitamin B3
NBS Superfood Supplement contains Vitamin B3. NBS superfood supplement is of natural origin and has no side effects over time. The combination of B vitamins is very effective for the function of body systems.
NBS Superfood contains these vitamins except B12 because it has animal origin. Therefore, NBS superfood can be included in everyone’s diet as a natural source of vitamins.
The amount of vitamin B3 needed by different people
Recommended amount of vitamin B3 for daily consumption:
Group name | Age | Amount of Vitamin B3 mg per day |
Infants | 0 to 6 month | 2 |
6 to 12 months | 4 | |
Children | 1 to 3 years | 6 |
3 to 8 years | 8 | |
teenagers | 9 to 13 years | 12 |
Men | 14 to over 70 years | 16 |
Women | 14 to over 70 years | 14 |
Pregnancy | – | 18 |
Breastfeeding | – | 17 |
