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Vitamin B3

Vitamin B3 is also called Niacin or Nicotinic Acid. It is formed from pyridine plus a carboxyl group.  It is a water-soluble vitamin.

Niacin is converted into nicotinamide – both have similar vitamin abilities but nicotinamide can not be used as a medicine.

Deficinecy of niacin can lead to pellagra.

As a supplement, this Vitamin may help improve arthritis pains, lower cholesterol, and boost brain function.

It can act as an antioxidant and plays a role in cellular development.

Food Source

–  Liver
–  Heart
–  Kidney
–  Chicken
–  Tuna
–  Salmon
–  Milk
–  Eggs
–  Several vegetables
–  Several fruits
–  Some seeds
–  Mushrooms
–  others

Medical Uses

–  Can be used in much higher doses: 1000mg – 200mg a few times a day
–  It can block the breakdown of fats
–  It can help decrease cholesterol

Deficiency

  –  Pellegra

Toxicity

–  The side effects include skin flushing and itching
–  Excess amounts can cause toxic reactions