The etiology of anxiety disorders is not completely understood. However, scientists believe certain biological, social and physical factors may play a role. While medication and certain types of psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy are often successful at alleviating anxiety and managing the symptoms of anxiety disorders, certain nutritional supplements like niacinamide may also provide benefits.
About Niacinamide
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide or nicotinic acid amide, is a form of vitamin B-3, or niacin. According to National Institutes of Health online encyclopedia Medline Plus, niacin and niacinamide play a number of important roles for maintaining proper health. Both help your body metabolize fats and sugars and also assist with regulation of cell health. While a vitamin B-3 deficiency is uncommon, alcoholics, people who have a poor diet and those who have a certain type of slow-growing tumor known as a carcinoid tumor may have a higher risk of niacin deficiency. Your body makes niacinamide from niacin, found in a wide range of dietary sources such as meat, fish, eggs, milk, yeast and green vegetables. The recommended daily allowance of niacin for the average adult male is 16 mg and 14 mg for the average adult female.
Anxiety Symptoms and Conventional Treatment
There's usually no cause for concern if you suffer from occasional feelings of anxiety. Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress and fear. However, if you notice that you're experiencing continuous anxiety, worry and tension with no apparent cause, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders manifest in symptoms such as constant worry, bodily tension, unexplained aches and pains, irritability, nervousness, insomnia, appetite disturbances and panic. If not properly treated, anxiety disorders can become worse. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, new treatments for anxiety disorders are constantly emerging. In most cases, your doctor will recommend a combination of medication and psychotherapy to help manage your symptoms. Some herbalists and alternative medical practitioners have found niacinamide supplementation also provides benefits. However, according to Dr. James Lake in his book, "Textbook of Integrative Mental Health Care," clinical studies have failed to show consistent results regarding the uses of niacinamide on anxiety.
Clinical Evidence
A limited number of studies have demonstrated the benefits of niacinamide supplementation on anxiety. One study, published in the May 1993 issue of the "Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine," showed that niacinamide supplementation had an anxiolytic effect on laboratory rats exposed to a conflict situation. While this study was performed on laboratory animals, the results may show potential benefits for humans and anxiety, although further research is needed. A case report by naturopathic doctor Jonathan Prousky, published in 2005 in the "Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine," showed the benefits of niacinamide supplementation on three patients suffering from anxiety disorders. However, more studies are necessary to confirm the benefits of niacinamide supplementation for people with anxiety disorders.
Considerations
Do not attempt to self-diagnose your condition if you think you are suffering from an anxiety disorder. Consult your doctor to obtain a proper diagnosis and to discuss potential treatment options. According to Medline Plus, niacin supplements can interact with certain medications and nutritional and herbal supplements. Do not use dietary supplements as a substitute for your doctor's advice. Inform your doctor if you plan to take a niacinamide supplement.
References
- Medline Plus: Niacin and Niacinamide
- National Institute of Mental Health: Anxiety Disorders
- "Textbook of Integrative Mental Health Care"; James Lake, M.D.; 2006
- "Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine"; Psychoregulatory Role of Nicotinamide; R.A. Akhundov, et al.; May 1993
- "Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine"; Supplemental Niacinamide Mitigates Anxiety Symptoms ...; J. Prousky, N.D.; 2005
