What is vitamin B3?
Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is an essential B vitamin that contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, the normal functioning of the nervous system and the maintenance of normal skin.
What is the difference between niacin and nicotinamide?
Niacin is the general name for vitamin B3, while nicotinamide (also called niacinamide) is one of its naturally occurring forms. Both provide vitamin B3 but differ in their characteristics and how they are commonly used in food supplements.
What foods naturally contain vitamin B3?
Vitamin B3 is naturally found in foods such as peanuts, mushrooms, brown rice, whole grains, legumes and seeds.
Why are there different forms of vitamin B3?
Vitamin B3 supplements are available in several forms, including nicotinamide, nicotinic acid and inositol hexanicotinate. Each provides vitamin B3 but differs in its characteristics and why it may be selected for a particular formulation.
What does vitamin B3 contribute to?
Vitamin B3 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, the normal functioning of the nervous system, normal psychological function, the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, and the maintenance of normal skin and mucous membranes.