B vitamins are known for their ability to convert food into usable energy, helping the body perform all necessary functions. One of the important B group vitamins is vitamin B3 or niacin, which plays a key role in the release of energy, contributing to normal energy metabolism. This vitamin also helps keep the nervous system normal, promotes healthy skin, regulates cholesterol and aids in the production of red blood cells.
Niacin, or vitamin B3, refers to nicotinic acid, nicotinamide and its derivatives, which exhibit the biological activity of nicotinamine. Niacin is obtained from food (e.g. meat, fish and legumes), but it is also synthesized by our body from the amino acid tryptophan, which is found in proteins.
Niacin, or vitamin B3, is needed:
- in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins
- in the work of the nervous system and muscles
- in the function of skin scar tissue
- in the formation of tissues of the digestive system
- in the regulation of cholesterol and triglyceride levels