Many individuals in the modern day suffer from Niacin or Vitamin B3 deficiency due to various factors including lack of supplementation in diet and malabsorption of the nutrient in the gastrointestinal tract. Deficiency of the essential nutrient Niacin is often characterized by symptoms including fatigue, malaise and diarrhea. In severe cases, patients may also develop mental symptoms such as depression and anxiety. Patients who are diagnosed with Niacin deficiency and those who are at high risk for developing the condition are advised to take foods which contain high amounts of Vitamin B3 such as milk, legumes and peanuts. Experts also recommend intake of health supplement products which contain relative amounts of Niacin as it ensures sufficient daily intake of the nutrient. Niacin plays a vital role in the several bodily processes. However, overdose of the compound is not healthy as it may increase risk for certain conditions.
What is Niacin?
Also known as Vitamin B3, Niacin is an important component of the Vitamin B complex group. Several studies have revealed how important Niacin is in the human body as it works not only in digestive tract functions but also in other organ systems of the human body including the nervous system, the reproductive system and the integumentary system. In the most recent researches, experts have also found that Niacin may play a vital function in the control and reduction of levels of cholesterol, triglycerides and Low-density Lipoprotein in the body, thus preventing many conditions affecting the heart. This function may also be an important key consideration in the prevention of Diabetes Mellitus which is brought about by accumulation of fat molecules in the key receptors of the human cells. A lot of researches are being conducted to discover more benefits of Niacin in the human body, as well as its risks when taken in excessive doses. Today, experts recommend the use of Niacin in modern day adults.
What are the benefits of using Niacin?
Niacin supplementation is beneficial for many individuals in the modern day generation. The benefits of using Niacin include the following:
- It may improve food breakdown and absorption of nutrients
Studies reveal that Niacin supplementation may improve overall function of the digestive tract. Thus, it may be useful in the breakdown of food from larger components to smaller ones and in the absorption of other nutrients in the small intestines.
- It increases serotonin levels
Niacin may also be useful in increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin. This is very useful in the prevention of various symptoms manifesting neurotransmitter depletion. It may also help treat depression and anxiety among modern day individuals.
- It may alleviate symptoms of arthritis
According to experts, Niacin may also be beneficial in the alleviation of the symptoms of arthritis, specifically, osteoarthritis. However, it is not primarily indicated as an immediate treatment for symptoms of the condition.
Conclusion
Using Niacin in health supplement formulations is an ideal way of improving several vital processes in the human body. It is generally safe for use among individuals.
