Key health benefits of vitamin B3

Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is critically important because it is involved in energy production, heart health, brain function, and skin health, and has beneficial effects on insulin sensitivity.1 It improves cholesterol levels, reduces the risk of heart attack and improves blood flow.
The importance of vitamin B3 is underscored by its role in preventing pellagra, a condition that once caused significant morbidity and mortality and is characterized by dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia. Vitamin B3 is crucial for converting food into energy, forming neurotransmitters, DNA repair, and functioning as an antioxidant.1
How to maintain normal levels of vitamin B3?

Nutritionally, the best way to get enough vitamin B3 is through a balanced diet that includes meat, fish, eggs, green leafy vegetables, beans, and nuts.

While vitamin B3 deficiency is rare in industrialized countries, ensuring adequate vitamin B3 through diet rather than over-reliance on supplements is recommended, as excessive supplemental intake may have adverse effects.1
Caution on excessive vitamin B3

While vitamin B3 is crucial for health, overconsumption through supplements can lead to side effects like hyperaemia, dizziness, nausea, and, in rare cases, liver damage.