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Supplement Facts Volumetrics Certificate of Analysis

Related Products:

Niacinamide B3 Powder, Niacinamide capsules, Inositol Hexanicotinate (flush-free niacin).

What is Niacin?

Niacin is known as vitamin B3, nicotinic acid, the antipellagra vitamin and vitamin PP. There are two commonly used forms of Vitamin B3: niacin and niacinamide. Both are readily absorbed from the small intestine. Both compounds can be converted into niacin coenzyme NAD and subsequently NADH, playing a key role in energy metabolism. In small amounts (less than 100 mg), niacin and niacinamide can be used interchangeably, however in larger amounts they do have different actions on the body. Niacin is important in the balance of good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol in the bloodstream. Niacinamide acts more to promote a healthy insulin response and to maintain joint health.

Niacin is one of the most stable of the B vitamins owing to the fact that it is resistant to the effects of heat, light, air, acid and alkali. Small amounts may be kept in the liver, while most of the excess is excreted in the urine.

Vitamin B3 was first discovered during oxidation of nicotine from tobacco. As such, it was given the name nicotinic acid vitamin, however the name was shortened to niacin: taken from NIcotinic ACid + (IN). It was thought wise to choose a common name other than nicotinic acid, for fear that it might be associated with nicotine, which may lead to notions that either smoking provided vitamins or that wholesome food contained a poison.

Niacin works with vitamin B1, riboflavin (vitamin B2), pyridoxine (vitamin B6), pantothenic acid, and biotin to break down and convert the carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in food into energy. In the body, niacin, either as nicotinic acid or niacinamide, is changed to the active forms, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and a phosphorylated form (NADP).

Involvement of niacin, an essential B vitamin, in cellular energy production means that it is of paramount importance for healthy cardiovascular function, nervous system function and immune function.

Niacin blocks the breakdown of fats, thus causing a decrease in free fatty acids in the blood.

Those with high cholesterol or elevated blood lipid levels currently taking prescription drugs to treat the condition should consult their physician before taking this product.

Additionally, vitamin B3 enhances the body's ability to eliminate toxins. Niacin plays a key role in clearing the body of toxic and harmful chemicals.

Niacin needs can be met partially by incorporating high protein foods in the diet because the human body is able to convert tryptophan, an amino acid, into niacin.

Niacin can be derived from nuts, dairy products, lean meats, poultry, fish, and eggs. Some niacin is also available from legumes and enriched breads and cereals. The best dietary sources of vitamin B3 are found in beets, brewer's yeast, beef liver, beef kidney, pork, turkey, chicken, veal, fish, salmon, swordfish, tuna, sunflower seeds and peanuts.

Health Benefits of Niacin

Niacin helps increase energy by improving the body’s ability to utilize the food at its disposal. Niacin (vitamin B3) works with other B vitamins to produce energy in the cells, and to control circulation, hormones, glucose, and hydrochloric acid in the body. Niacin also works intimately with riboflavin (vitamin B2) and pyridoxine (vitamin B6) to maintain healthy skin and ensure the smooth operation of the nervous and digestive systems.

Niacin supplements can prevent niacin deficiency (pellagra). Symptoms of niacin deficiency include dementia, depression, canker sores, diarrhea, dizziness, halitosis, headaches, fatigue and indigestion. Extreme cases of deficiency can ultimately lead to the occurrence of a potentially fatal disease called pellagra. Pellagra is caused by a lack of niacin and is characterized by diarrhea, mental disorders, depression and skin problems.

Purity and Concentration of Niacin

This pharmaceutical grade niacin contains no fillers, taste additives or anti-caking agents.

Suggested Use of Niacin

The suggested serving size for niacin is 100 to 500 milligrams daily, depending on individual needs. A level 1/8 teaspoon will supply approximately 274 milligrams. A serving of 3/16 tsp equals 411 mg. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for Niacin here.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends a Daily Value (DV) of 20 milligrams for adults and children four or more years of age. A serving of 100 milligrams (mg) will provide 500% of the Daily Value. A serving of 500 mg will provide 2500% of the daily value for the vitamin.

Potential Side Effects of Vitamin B3 (niacin)

Niacin is a vasodilator. It makes the blood vessels widen, which in turn leads to improved circulation. However, this can cause a side effect referred to as flushing characterized by skin redness, itching and irritation, as well as headaches, lightheadedness and low blood pressure.

Niacin flushing is more likely to occur in serving sizes larger than 50 milligrams to 100 milligrams. Adjust the serving size of niacin as necessary if side effects occur.

Large amounts of niacin can also cause liver damage, and may aggravate peptic ulcer disease. Most stomach-related side effects usually go away over time. Taking niacin with food may prevent stomach discomfort. People with a history of liver disease or stomach ulcers should not take niacin supplements. Those who are pregnant, diabetic or who suffer from asthma, gallbladder disease, gout, glaucoma or ulcers should seek the advice of a medical professional prior to taking this vitamin. High amounts of nicotinic acid (approximately 3 grams daily) has caused impaired glucose tolerance in otherwise healthy individuals.

Check with your health professional before use.

WARNING! Taking 2 grams niacin or more in a single serving can result in potentially life threatening complications from flushing. Do not take more than 500 milligrams Niacin in a single serving as extreme discomfort associated with flushing may be experienced. For some people, even small servings of 50 to 100 milligrams can result in uncomfortable flushing. Taking a single 325 mg aspirin 30 minutes before taking niacin may help reduce flushing symptoms.

Bioavailability, Mixing and Solubility of Niacin

This water-soluble product dissolves quickly in water and has a sour taste that is only slightly bitter. Mix with water or juice and drink.

References & Further Research

Mayo Clinic: High Cholesterol

University of Maryland Medical Center: Niacin

Medline: Niacin and niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Linus Pauling Institute, Micronutrient Information Center: Niacin


NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates herbal and other dietary supplements differently than conventional medicines. The standards for supplements are found in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), a federal law that defines dietary supplements and sets product-label­ing standards and health claim limits. To learn more about DSHEA, visit the FDA Web site.