Vitamin B3 is a water soluble vitamin, meaning that it cannot be stored in the body and is acquired through diet. Other names for vitamin B3 are niacin and nicotinic acid.
It is a necessary vitamin to both the nervous and digestive systems; main benefits are:
Niacin aids in the normal functioning of the human digestive system, promoting a healthy appetite, properly functioning nerves, and glowing skin.
Vitamin B3 deficiency can result in pellagra, which is characterized by digestive problems, skin inflammation, and mental health problems.
Intake of niacin-rich foods has been proven to considerably reduce the levels of LDL cholesterol and raise the HDL cholesterol. This prevents the thickening of artery walls and conditions like atherosclerosis.
Niacin Flush
In some cases high doses of Vitamin B3 in the form of niacin can cause erythema, or a niacin flush : Niacin dilates the blood vessels encouraging an increase of blood flow to the skin which creates the niacin flush.
It creates a warm, sometimes tingly, feeling on the skin and is normally followed with blushing. The skin feels warm to the touch and can even feel itchy. It is then followed by a chill sensation when the effect stops.
It is entirely harmless with a flush lasting no more than an hour - often much less - with each additional dose the intensity of the flush will decrease.
Some top tips to minimise the effects of a niacin flush:
- Take it with food, specifically apples including their skin
- Avoid alcohol, hot drinks, high fat & spicy food or snacks as these can intensify the flush
- Also avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice as these can exacerbate flushing
- If you experince the flush effect you can take vitamin C to reduce its intensity
One capsule per day with meals. for the 50mg strenght
For the 500mg strenght please start slowly by splitting the tablet in 4 to minimise the initial flush effect
This product is suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
