Niacinamide is a form vitamin B-3, or niacin, that is part of the water-soluble vitamin B complex. Both Niacin and niacinamide play an important role in the metabolism of carbohydrate and fats. Their deficiency is rare in most developed countries and is commonly associated with alcoholism. Apart from preventing and treating vitamin B-3 deficiencies, high doses of niacinamide may also help manage a variety of conditions. However, it is important to talk to a doctor before using niacinamide.
Daily Requirement and Sources
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 2 to 17mg of vitamin B-3 per day, depending on the age and overall condition of the individual. The required values of niacin and niacinamide can be obtained from foods such as beets, brewer's yeast, meats, sunflower seeds and peanuts. Your body can make niacinamide from niacin which may, in turn, be made from the amino acid tryptophan. Niacinamide supplements are also available as tablets and capsules.
Health Benefits
Niacinamide may prevent diabetes and delay the onset of insulin dependence in individuals with type 1 diabetes, says MayoClinic.com. The website also recommends niacinamide supplements to reduce serum phosphate levels in hyperphosphatemia, characterized by elevated phosphate levels in the blood, and to treat osteoarthritis. However, more research may be needed to prove these benefits conclusively.
A study in the July 2005 edition of the journal "Dermatologic Surgery" states that topical application of niacinamide can help reduce fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and yellowing of skin. Some animal studies, such as the one published in the November 2008 issue of the "Journal of Neurosciences," reveal that oral niacinamide supplements may help treat Alzheimer's disease. UMMC also states that niacinamide supplements can help treat conditions such as pellagra that are associated with niacin deficiency.
Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, niacinamide supplements are generally safe to use, although side effects such as dizziness, headache, itching, nausea, upset stomach and flushing of skin may occur. It may also alter the blood sugar levels. Severe allergic reactions may occur rarely.
Precautions
Niacinamide supplements are available at your local pharmacies and health food stores in several strengths. Always talk to a doctor to determine a dose that is right for you. Do not drink alcohol while taking niaciamide supplements as it may lead to liver damage. The supplements may also interfere with other medications including anti-diabetes medications. Also, remember that unlike niacin, niacinamide supplements do not lower cholesterol.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
- MayoClinic.com: Niacin (vitamin B3, nicotinic acid), Niacinamide
- "Dermatologic Surgery"; Niacinamide: A B Vitamin that Improves Aging Facial Skin Appearance; D.L.Bissett, et al.; July 2005
- "The Journal of Neuroscience"; Nicotinamide Restores Cognition in Alzheimer's Disease Transgenic Mice via a Mechanism Involving Sirtuin Inhibition and Selective Reduction of Thr231-Phosphotau; Kim N. Green, et al.; November 2008
- Drugs.com: Niacinamide
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