Niacin｜HerbBB ingredient encyclopedia

Why supplement?

✓

Flushing B3

Niacin dilates blood vessels and causes flushing; high doses have been used medically to lower lipids. For general wellness, a low dose as an NAD precursor is enough—do not self-treat it as a lipid drug.

✓

Making NAD

Niacin is a source of Vitamin B3. B3 is a precursor of NAD/NADP. This form is used to supply niacin or niacinamide; flushing and uses are not the same.

How to take it

With foodBest taken with food (not on an empty stomach) to reduce stomach upset and flushing

Best timeMorning or midday

Check the amount and unit of the active ingredient per serving first.

General wellness16 mg NE/day for adult men; 14 mg NE/day for adult women

Specific needsThe adult daily safety upper limit is 35 mg NE (from niacin supplements, to limit flushing/liver injury); high-dose therapymay only be prescribed by a clinician.

How oftenGenerally use the recommended daily intake.

What to watch

Cautions

People with liver disease, gastric ulcers, or diabetes should not self-start high doses.

High-dose niacin for blood lipids must be prescribed and monitored by a doctor.

People with liver disease, gastric ulcers, or diabetes should ask a doctor before high doses.

Common side effects

· Niacin flush, burning, or itching

· Nausea or stomach discomfort

Rare but important

· Long-term high doses may cause liver injury and raised blood sugar.

Long-term dependenceNot addictive; flushing from high doses may lessen with tolerance, but that does not mean you should raise the dose on your own.