Niacin, a B3 vitamin
Niacin or vitamin B3 is essential for the conversion of carbohydrates, alcohol, and lipids into energy in the body. In addition to promoting skin health, niacin supports the digestive and nervous systems. In contrast to the other B-complex vitamins, niacin is quite heat stable, and only trace quantities are lost during cooking.
The following foods contain vitamin B3:
Chicken Nuts Meats
Lactose Mushrooms
All protein-containing substances are fish
Eggs
Wholegrain breakfast cereals and pastries
Pellagra or a deficiency in Niacin
People who consume excessive levels of alcohol or subsist on a diet consisting almost entirely of corn are more likely to contract pellagra. Other causes of pellagra include the inability of the body to metabolize niacin effectively. Diarrhea, dementia, and dermatitis are the three main symptoms of pellagra, also known as the three Ds. In addition, niacin deficiency may result in mortality if not treated appropriately.
Niacin poisoning
Niacin in excess may have a drug-like effect on the nervous system and circulating lipids in the blood. Toxic levels of niacin can cause flushing, nausea, possible liver injury, and itching.
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