Of the thirteen vitamins, the most medicinal and therapeutic is vitamin B3. So important for good health that it’s the only vitamin that the body can make a little bit of, under conditions of deficiency. Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is important for sugar metabolism. It’s part of the body’s glucose processing chemistry.
Diabetics would be smart to take vitamin B3 supplements. It has important benefits for the blood and can help lower triglycerides and reduce cholesterol as well as a statin drug, without the side effects. It’s important for the brain too. It’s been used to treat depression, schizophrenia, dementia, Asperger’s syndrome and social anxiety disorder.
It’s structurally similar to nicotine and using daily may be helpful for cigarette smokers who are looking to quit. Vitamin B3 can also be used topically to treat acne. Buy some capsules at a health food store and add fresh to your favorite facial cream or lotion.
Because vitamin B3 circulatory effects can cause some unpleasant flushing, a second form called niacinamide, known as “no flush niacin” is also available. Using time-release niacin can also minimize the likelihood of flushing. Niacin is found in high-protein foods like beef, fish, eggs and dairy. Grain, seeds, legumes and mushrooms are good sources for vegans. If you want to use vitamin b3 therapeutically, supplement with a timed release form 100 milligrams daily and always take your niacin or niacinamide supplements with the entire B complex.
