What Is Niacin?

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin, which means our body cannot store it. It is widely recognized for its role in helping to lower cholesterol levels.

As described by Cox & García-Palmieri (1990):

“Niacin is an unsaturated alcohol from the steroidal compound family. It is essential for cellular function in all animals and a key component of cell membranes. Additionally, it serves as a precursor for important substances, including adrenal and gonadal steroid hormones, as well as bile acids.”

In other words, niacin is not just another vitamin—it plays a vital role in your body’s overall function. And yes, it’s directly linked to cholesterol management.

Because niacin is water-soluble, any excess that the body doesn’t immediately use is excreted through urine. This means maintaining healthy levels requires a regular intake of niacin-rich foods or supplements. Without sufficient intake, the body can develop a deficiency, which may affect overall health.

Health Benefits of Niacin

Niacin (vitamin B3) offers a wide range of health benefits, including:

  • Supporting heart health: Helps maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.
  • Regulating cholesterol: Assists in lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) and increasing HDL (good cholesterol).
  • Reducing Alzheimer’s risk: May help protect brain function and cognitive health.
  • Enhancing mental performance: Boosts concentration, motivation, and overall intellectual function.
  • Supporting hormone production: Plays a role in the synthesis of sexual hormones.
  • Promoting fat and protein metabolism: Helps the body efficiently use fats and proteins.
  • Converting glucose into energy: Facilitates energy production from dietary carbohydrates.
  • Improving skin and hair health: Supports natural beauty and overall appearance.
  • Supporting eye health: Contributes to maintaining healthy vision.
  • Stimulating blood circulation: Enhances overall blood flow.
  • Reducing inflammation: Beneficial for conditions like arthritis.
  • Treating pellagra: Prevents and helps manage this vitamin B3 deficiency disease.
  • Assisting in diabetes management: Supports treatment for type I diabetes and may aid in managing blood sugar levels.

Properties of Niacin

  • Niacin is especially valued for its cardiovascular benefits. Regular intake of the recommended daily dose can:
  • Lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL).
  • Reduce triglyceride levels, which helps prevent atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).
  • Protect against cardiovascular diseases, supporting overall heart health.

In many cases, niacin is prescribed alongside statins to enhance cholesterol-lowering effects and achieve better results.

Preventing Alzheimer’s with Niacin

A deficiency in niacin has been linked to the development of dementia. Numerous clinical studies indicate that niacin supplementation can play a protective role against Alzheimer’s and other degenerative diseases.

In a recent study involving 3,718 participants, researchers concluded that a niacin-rich diet or supplements not only enhance cognitive performance but may also help prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

Niacin Deficiency

  • A lack of niacin (vitamin B3) in the body can lead to several noticeable symptoms, including:
  • Fatigue – feeling unusually tired or low on energy.
  • Indigestion – digestive issues and discomfort.
  • Disease susceptibility – a weaker immune system, making the body more prone to illnesses.
  • Circulatory disorders – problems with blood flow and cardiovascular function.
  • Depression – mood disturbances and increased risk of mental health issues.
  • Regular intake of niacin through diet or supplements is essential to prevent these deficiency-related problems.