Deficiency Symptoms
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) , a person who lacks vitamin B-3 may experience: a pigmented rash on skin that is exposed to the sun
rough appearance to the skin
bright red tongue
fatigue or apathy
vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea
circulatory problems
depression
headache
memory loss
in severe cases, hallucinations A severe lack of vitamin B-3 can result in pellagra.
Uses In Medicine
In the past, some people have combined vitamin B-3 with statin use as a treatment to control cholesterol. However, research into this has produced mixed results, and some people have had adverse effects.
For this reason, the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association do not recommend using this treatment. Risks The amount of vitamin B-3 found in food does not cause side effects. However, taking high doses of vitamin B-3 as a supplement can result in adverse effects.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Dietary Supplement Label Database recommend 16 milligrams (mg) a day of vitamin B-3 for anyone of 4 years of age or over who is consuming a 2,000-calorie diet.
Niacin Deficiency Symptoms
Like all B vitamins, niacin plays a role in converting carbohydrates into glucose, metabolizing fats and proteins, and keeping the nervous system working properly. Tryptophan is one of the amino acids that makes up protein.
Who Is At Risk?
Certain conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, Celiac disease, HIV, and alcohol use disorder can prevent the body from absorbing B vitamins effectively, increasing the risk for deficiencies. The symptoms of a vitamin B deficiency vary depending on which B vitamin you’re deficient in. They can range from fatigue and confusion to anemia or a compromised immune system.