Leukemia is a cancer that can develop on its own, but it can also be a result of chemotherapy. Niacin may be effective in reducing the risk of this occurring, but studies are inconclusive. If you have leukemia or are undergoing chemotherapy, consult your doctor about niacin supplementation before consuming it, to reduce the risk of adverse side effects and interactions.
Niacin
Niacin, or vitamin B3, is one of the B vitamins. These vitamins help the body derive energy from food and metabolize proteins and fats. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, niacin aids in the production of sex and stress hormones, promotes blood circulation and helps lower blood cholesterol levels. The body does not store niacin, so you need to consume it consistently. Good dietary sources of niacin include fish, salmon, sunflower seeds and peanuts. Foods containing the amino acid tryptophan--such as eggs, chicken and red meat--are also good sources, since the body converts this amino acid into niacin.
Leukemia
Leukemia is a blood cancer in blood-forming tissues, including bone marrow and the lymphatic system. According to the Mayo Clinic website, leukemia typically arises from white blood cells, which normally help the body fight infection. In leukemia, the bone marrow produces large amounts of white blood cells that do not function properly. Symptoms vary but can include persistent fatigue, infections, easy bruising or bleeding, bone pain and unintentional weight loss. There are numerous types of leukemia, and treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation, biological or targeted therapy, or stem cell transplant.
Effects of Niacin on Leukemia
A 2008 study reported in "Nutrition and Cancer" found that rats deficient in niacin developed leukemia more rapidly than rats given niacin supplementation after receiving an alkylating drug similar to chemotherapy. Nonlymphocytic leukemia is the most common secondary cancer and can result from chemotherapy damage to blood-forming tissues. A 2009 study in "Molecular Cancer Therapeutics" also found that niacin helped decrease chemotherapy-induced leukemia in rats. More research is necessary on the relationship between niacin and cancer, including studies with human subjects.
Considerations
Niacin is not a cure for leukemia, nor does it guarantee protection from chemotherapy-induced leukemia. Before using niacin supplements, talk with your doctor about whether it is safe and appropriate for you. High doses can be toxic, and niacin can interact with a variety of medications, causing adverse effects. Tell your doctor about all other medications or supplements you may be taking before using niacin supplements.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Vitamin B3 (Niacin); Dr. Steven Ehrlich; June 2009
- MayoClinic; Leukemia; Mayo Clinic Staff; April 2010
- MayoClinic; Leukemia: Treatments and Drugs; Mayo Clinic Staff; April 2010
- "Nutrition and Cancer"; Niacin Supplementation Decreases the Incidence of Alkylation-Induced Nonlymphocytic Leukemia in Long-Evans Rats; AP Bartleman et al; 2008
- "Molecular Cancer Therapeutics"; Niacin Status and Treatment-Related Leukemogenesis; JB Kirkland; 2009
