Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It is involved in many important physiological processes such as energy metabolism, DNA repair, and the regulation of gene expression. Vitamin B3 is also important for maintaining healthy skin, nerves, and digestive system.
Niacin is available in two forms: nicotinic acid and nicotinamide. Nicotinic acid is used to treat high cholesterol levels and is known for causing flushing of the skin. Nicotinamide, on the other hand, does not cause flushing and is used in skincare products for its anti-inflammatory and skin brightening effects.
Vitamin B3 is found in many foods such as meat, poultry, fish, and grains. The body can also synthesize niacin from the amino acid tryptophan. However, the amount of niacin that can be synthesized from tryptophan is limited, so it is important to obtain niacin from dietary sources as well.
Deficiency of vitamin B3 can lead to a condition known as pellagra, which is characterized by symptoms such as skin rash, diarrhea, and mental confusion. Pellagra was once common in the southern United States, where diets were low in niacin, but is now rare in developed countries.