Vitamin-B3 (Niacin)
Posted on 11 April 2008 by admin
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Vitamin B-3, also commonly called Niacin, is a member of the B-complex vitamin family.
Benefits: Facilitates the body’s ability to eliminate toxins, assists in antioxidant and detoxification functions, help stabilize blood sugar, help lower cholesterol level, relieve acne, migraines, vertigo, forgetfulness, high blood pressure, diarrhoea, support genetic processes in your cells, helps your body process fats.
The best sources of Vitamin B-3:
Fruits: dates, mango, peach
Vegetables: mushrooms, asparagus, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, green vegetables, turnips, carrots and celery
Dairy products: milk, cheese, eggs,
Meats: chicken breast, lean meat, veal, beef liver, beef kidney, pork, venison
Fish: tuna, salmon, swordfish, prawns
Nuts and seeds: peanuts, sunflower seeds, almonds,
Wheat and legume products: cereal bran or germ, whole grain, rice bran, beans, corn flour, barley, lentils,Some of the other sources include:sweet potatoes, brewer’s yeast
Vitamin-B3 Deficiency:
Because of its unique relationship with energy production, vitamin B3 deficiency is often associated with general weakness, forgetfulness, nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, muscular weakness, skin infections, sores in the mouth, headache, anaemia and trouble sleeping or relaxing. Digestive problems can also be associated with niacin deficiency. When the deficiency is severe, a disease called Pellagra. The first symptom is easily recognizable. A lesion appears on skin that has been exposed to sunlight. This more serious condition must be treated immediately. Pellagra is also characterized by symptoms including dermatitis, irritability or diarrhoea.
Health Conditions:
Vitamin B3 may play a role in the prevention or treatment of the following health conditions: Alzheimer’s disease, Cataracts, Convulsions, Depression, Diabetes, Gout, Smelling and taste disorders, Hallucinations, Headaches, HIV/AIDS, Hyperactivity, Menstrual pain, Multiple sclerosis, Osteoarthritis, Vertigo, Rheumatoid arthritis, Insomnia.
Side effects:
Very large intakes (>3000 mg) may causes liver damage, peptic ulcers, skin rashes, headaches, low blood pressure.
It is NOT recommended for:
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should take niacin under medical supervision.Adult people suffering from kidney disease and children under age 12 are not recommended to take Vitamin B3.
Daily intake recommendation:
18-20 mg per day for men
12-15 mg per day for women
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