Medical Health Encyclopedia

Niacin


InjuryDiseasesNutritionPoison
SymptomsSurgeryTestSpecial Topic
Vitamin B3 benefit
Vitamin B3 benefit
Vitamin B3 deficit
Vitamin B3 deficit
Vitamin B3 source
Vitamin B3 source
Overview Food Sources Side Effects Recommendations Prevention
Definition

Niacin is a type of B vitamin. It is water-soluble, which means it is not stored in the body. Water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water. Leftover amounts of the vitamin leave the body through the urine. That means you need a continuous supply of such vitamins in your diet.


Alternative Names

Nicotinic acid; Vitamin B3


Function

Niacin helps the digestive system, skin, and nerves to function. It is also important for converting food to energy.



Review Date: 02/14/2011
Reviewed By: Alison Evert, MS, RD, CDE, Nutritionist, University of Washington Medical Center Diabetes Care Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).




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