Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

Niacin-dependent activation of the nicotinamide coenzymes NAD and NADP enables their participation in the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, proteins and alcohol, and the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol, respectively. Niacin also has roles in brain and nervous system function, promotes vasodilation, thereby improving circulation, and is involved in DNA repair and the production of steroid hormones.     

* nicotinic acid equivalent 

Niacin (or tryptophan) deficency results in a disorder known as pellagra, characterised by sunburn-like skin lesions, particularly so in areas exposed to the sun, allopecia and edema of the skin, and additional symptoms such as diarrhoea, insomnia and confusion. Untreated, the condition can lead to dementia and eventually death.  

High dose nicotinic acid (3 - 6 g / d) may cause damage to the structure and funtion of the kidneys and liver. Furthermore, high intakes of nicotinic acid (but not nicotinamide) may cause vasodilation close to the skin resulting in flushing, and a transient reduction in blood pressure.