HealthyPIG Magazine

Niacin, or vitamin B3, is a water-soluble B-complex vitamin that occurs naturally in some foods, is added to foods, and is sold as a supplement. The two most common forms of niacin in foods and supplements are niacin and niacinamide. The body can also convert tryptophan, an amino acid, into nicotinamide. Niacin is water-soluble, so excess niacin that is not needed by the body is excreted in the urine. Niacin acts as a coenzyme in the body, and more than 400 enzymes rely on it to carry out various reactions. Niacin helps convert nutrients into energy, produce cholesterol and fat, produce and repair DNA, and exerts antioxidant effects.