Niacin-B3

Pellagra is the deficiency disease associated with niacin. It is characterized by "the three Ds", dermatitis, diarrhea and dementia. Niacin is involved in enzyme systems that affect the skin, gastrointestinal tract and nervous system.

Niacin comes in two forms; niacin (nicotinamide) and niacinamide. We make the latter from tryptophan, an amino acid found in animal foods. Niacin is found in whole wheat, potatoes, corn flour, eggs, broccoli, tomatoes and carrots. Niacin can get lost in cooking water- your best bet is to steam, bake, stir-fry or microwave. Niacin is best utilized in the B complex supplement or from the diet.

Niacin and Cholesterol-Niacin (nicotinic acid) not nicotinamide in pharmacological doses of 3 grams/day or more lowers cholesterol in some people. Niacin exerts a dual benefit. It lowers (LDL) the bad cholesterol while raising HDL (the good cholesterol). One side effect is that it can trigger a discomforting flushing of the skin. The time release is less likely to cause flushing. Caution & Beware- at this dosage it acts like a drug and has the potential to damage the liver and raise blood glucose to dangerous levels. The American Medical Association advises against it. There are reports of injury to persons with asthma or peptic ulcer disease from the histamine release that causes the flushing in nicotinic acid. If you choose this therapy, by all means use under physician's direction

Donna Tinnerello, MS, RD, CD/N Updated June 2000

Donna Tinnerello MS, RD,, CD/N is registered dietitian with more than 10 years experience in HIV and nutrition. She works in lower Manhattan at Cabrini Medical Center, the community and in private practice. Her subspecialties are cardiovascular, renal, gastrointestinal disease, diabetes and weight loss. Donna is available for private consultation by referral only.