You’ve probably heard a lot about B vitamins lately, especially B12, B6, and folic acid. But what does vitamin B3, also known as niacin, do, where does it come from, and how much do we need?<\/p>\n\n
Vitamin B3 is one of the eight B vitamins, also known as niacin, and it helps support normal body functions.<\/p>\n\n
It exists mainly in two chemical forms:<\/p>\n\n
Both forms are found in foods and dietary supplements.<\/p>\n\n
Vitamin B3 is water-soluble, so the body doesn\u2019t store it but excretes any excess through urine. We get this essential nutrient through our diet, but our body can also produce small amounts from an amino acid called tryptophan, which is present in animal-based protein sources.<\/p>\n\n
Niacin is involved in normal energy-producing metabolic processes and helps support normal body functions.<\/p>\n\n
Researchers have studied vitamin B3, but more research is needed to understand its full role.<\/p>\n\n
Niacin deficiency is uncommon in developed countries because it is well absorbed from many foods and is often added to fortified foods.<\/p>\n\n
Paying attention to niacin intake is especially important if certain risk factors are present.<\/p>\n\n
Factors that can lead to low B3 levels include:<\/p>\n\n