Niacin is a water-soluble vitamin, also known as vitamin B3. Niacin is the generic term for nicotinic acid (pyridine 3-carboxylic acid) and nicotinamide (nicotinic acid amide) and the coenzyme forms of the vitamin. Niacin is important for the development and function of the cells in your body.
Niacin is found naturally in many foods, and is added to some foods.
• Poultry, beef, pork, anchovies and fish
• Some types of peanuts, nuts, legumes, and grains
• Enriched and fortified foods, such as many breads and cereals
• Whole grains and whole meal wheat flour
The amino acid tryptophan contributes as much as two thirds of the niacin activity required by adults in typical diets. Important food sources of tryptophan are meat, milk and eggs. Vitamin B3 is required for cell respiration and helps in the release of energy and metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, proper circulation, maintenance of healthy skin, functioning of the nervous system and normal secretion of bile and stomach fluids.
A sufficient intake of vitamin B3 (niacin) is important as it helps the body to
• convert food into glucose, used to produce energy
• produce macromolecules, including fatty acids and cholesterol
• DNA repair and stress responses.
Food sources of vitamin B3 and functions in human body
