Niacin, or vitamin B-3, is a nutrient that all human beings -- including toddlers -- require for good health. In fact, a deficiency of niacin can lead to a condition known as pellagra, which is characterized by indigestion, skin rashes, impaired brain function and, in serious cases, even death, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. Fortunately, most toddlers who eat a healthy, balanced diet will receive sufficient amounts of niacin from their food.
Function
Niacin is one of eight different B vitamins; together, the B vitamin complex helps the body process food into useable energy in the form of glucose, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Additionally, niacin helps lower the body's levels of unhealthy cholesterol, assists in the creation of several different types of hormones and helps maintain a healthy circulatory system. It also contributes to a healthy nervous system and healthy liver skin, vision and hair.
Recommendations for Children
Adequate intake recommendations of niacin for young children are quite small; in fact, for those 6 months old or younger, the recommendation is only 2 mg per day. Children 7 to 12 months old need about 4 mg of niacin per day, those 1 to 3 years old need 6 mg per day, and those 4 to 8 years old need 8 mg per day. The daily recommended intake increases significantly as children age: 9 to 13 year olds need 12 mg of niacin per day, and males 14 years old or older then need 16 mg per day, while females the same age need 14 mg per day.
Toxicity
Since the adequate intake of niacin for children is so low, parents should be cautious about excessive niacin consumption due to its potential for niacin toxicity; however, this is primarily a concern with niacin supplementation. The niacin found in food rarely has any harmful symptoms. Niacin toxicity can cause symptoms like rashes on the skin, elevated blood glucose level, ulcers and liver problems.
Upper Intake Level
Toddlers can safely consume more niacin than is required for good health; it will simply not provide any additional benefits. Children younger than 1 year old should not consume supplemental niacin since their niacin requirements are so low. Children between 1 and 3 years old should limit their niacin intake to 10 mg per day, and those between 4 and 8 years old should limit their intake to 15 mg per day. Niacin intake greater than these levels can potentially cause niacin toxicity.
