Nicotinic acid, also known as niacin, is a vitamin found in many foods. It is typically used to treat high cholesterol or high triglycerides. It can also be used to treat other conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, and pellagra. Nicotinic acid works by increasing the amount of HDL (good) cholesterol in the blood, while decreasing the amount of LDL (bad) cholesterol. It also decreases the production of triglycerides, which are a type of fat found in the bloodstream. Additionally, nicotinic acid can help increase the amount of beneficial HDL cholesterol in the blood.
Niacin, also known as nicotinic acid, is a B vitamin that plays important roles in the body [1, 2]. Here's a breakdown of its key functions and uses:
Function in the Body:
- Energy metabolism: Niacin is involved in converting carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy for cellular functions [1].
- Cholesterol management: Niacin can help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels and raise HDL ("good") cholesterol levels in the blood [1, 3].
- Other potential benefits: Niacin research is ongoing, but it may also play a role in healthy brain function and reducing inflammation [4, 5].
Medical Uses:
- High cholesterol: Prescription-strength niacin is used to treat high cholesterol levels, typically when other lifestyle modifications haven't been effective [1, 3].
Important Considerations:
- Dosage: The appropriate dosage of niacin for cholesterol management is much higher than the amount typically found in food or a daily multivitamin. These high doses should only be taken under a doctor's supervision [1].
- Side effects: High-dose niacin can cause flushing of the skin, itching, burning sensation, and headaches [1]. These side effects are often temporary and may lessen with continued use. However, your doctor will monitor you for potential side effects and adjust the dosage if necessary.
- Not for everyone: Niacin may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain medical conditions like liver disease, stomach ulcers, or uncontrolled diabetes [1].
- Food sources: Niacin can be naturally obtained from a variety of foods, including [2]:
- Lean meats and poultry
- Fish (especially tuna and salmon)
- Peanuts and peanut butter
- Legumes (beans and lentils)
- Enriched grains
Here are some additional points to remember:
- It's generally recommended to get niacin from a balanced diet whenever possible.
- If you have high cholesterol, consult your doctor about the best course of treatment, which may include lifestyle changes, diet modifications, and potentially prescription medications like niacin.
- Self-treating with high doses of niacin is not recommended due to the potential for side effects.
International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives: 375
Food additives Europe numbers: E375
Niacin, which includes both nicotinic acid and nicotinamide, is a bit of an exception in the world of food excipients. Here's why:
- Essential Nutrient: First and foremost, niacin is actually an essential vitamin B3. Our bodies need it for various functions, including energy metabolism, healthy skin and hair, and proper nervous system function.
- Fortification, Not Always Excipient: Niacin is often added to processed foods like enriched flour, cereals, and grain products. In this case, it acts as a fortifying agent to replace nutrients lost during processing and ensure people get enough vitamin B3 in their diet. This wouldn't be considered a true excipient because it has a nutritional value.
- Potential Excipient Uses: There may be some limited applications where nicotinic acid, a specific form of niacin, is used as a true food excipient. For example, it might be used in some cases as an acidity regulator or an anti-caking agent. However, this is less common than its use as a fortifying agent.
Here's a breakdown of the two forms of niacin:
- Nicotinic Acid: This form can cause flushing of the skin as a side effect, which is why it's not typically used in high amounts for food fortification. However, its properties might be useful in some specific excipient applications.
- Nicotinamide: This form doesn't cause flushing and is the preferred form for food fortification.