Niacin Side Effects
Niacin is a B-vitamin that helps
metabolize energy in the body and aids in DNA repair. Also called nicotinic
acid or vitamin B3, it also lowers cholesterol levels and protects against
diabetes, atherosclerosis, and osteoarthritis. Niacin deficiency causes
indigestion, fatigue, canker sores, and in severe cases, a skin condition
called pellagra. Common sources of niacin include beef liver and kidney,
beets, fish, poultry, peanuts, sunflower seeds, and veal.
Niacin is also available in supplements, but these must be taken with care
to avoid niacin side effects. Always consult your doctor before taking
niacin, because some niacin side effects can aggravate existing conditions.
Here are some common niacin side effects and how to avoid them.
1. Niacin flush
Niacin flush usually results from doses of 75 mg or more. It is
characterized by red or “flushed” skin, and a burning sensation in the face
and chest. Niacin flush is usually harmless, but it is uncomfortable and may
interfere with daily activities. You can prevent niacin flush by taking
aspirin 30 minutes before taking the niacin.
2. Liver damage
High doses of niacin can damage the liver and cause stomach ulcers. This is
most common in patients taking niacin to treat diabetes and heart disease.
In such case, doctors should do regular blood tests to monitor liver
function. Avoid niacin supplements if you have gout, diabetes, gall bladder
disease, or a history of stomach ulcers or liver disease, or at least
consult your doctor before taking any.
3. Vitamin imbalance
Long-term niacin side effects include an imbalance of B-vitamins in the
body. This can cause any of several deficiency-related conditions, ranging
from simple rashes to heart arrhythmia and mental disorders. Always take a
complex B-vitamin to maintain balance when taking niacin or other single
B-vitamin.
4. Interaction with other medicines
Some medications can trigger or aggravate niacin side effects. Some may
block the absorption of niacin, while others become less effective when
combined with the vitamin. Inform your doctor if you are using antibiotics,
aspirin, blood pressure and cholesterol reducers, nicotine patches,
isoniazid, and diabetes medications.
IMPORTANT: Some niacin supplements contain extenders which may be harmful to
your health, such as sugar, silica, starch, and gluten. To be safe, buy only
niacin supplements that are GMP-compliant, which ensures that they pass
strict safety standards and do not contain such chemicals. Make sure they do
not contain additives such as artificial colors and flavors.
We Have Been Using The Following Products For Over 3 Years And Have Achieved Optimal Health...
"Be Sure To Look Further In To Our Products Of Choice For The Foundation Of A Sound Nutritional Regime"
Speciality Nutrients - Nutritional Supplements
Bilberry Extract Herb - The Benefits Of Bilberry
Lutein And Zeaxanthin - We discuss The Benefits Here
We talk about the Benefits of Turmeric - Turmeric Benefits Exposed