Why you should know about Niacin side effects?
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3 plays an important part in cellular metabolism. It is a water soluble vitamin which is essential for the formation of many enzymes in our body. It plays an important part in the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose. Niacin helps in maintaining healthy hair, skin and nails. It is good for the heart, as it helps in regulating the cholesterol levels. Our body synthesizes niacin in small amounts through the liver. To derive the maximum benefits of niacin, one can get it from external sources of food like beef, salmon, chicken, legumes, sunflower seeds, brewer’s yeast and peanuts. . Niacin supplements are also taken by individuals suffering from niacin deficiency. These supplements when taken in normal amounts do not have any side effects. Niacin side effects occur only when taken in larger amounts.
Niacin and flushing
One of the most common niacin side effects is flushing. Seventy five milligram and higher intake of niacin doses can result in flushing in an individual. The higher intake of niacin dilates the blood vessels of the individual and causes “niacin flushing”. This phase lasts for about twenty minutes to a maximum of thirty minutes. Flushing is an unpleasant side effect of niacin. It should be noted that the niacin tolerance degree will vary from individual to individual. Some people may flush at an intake of about fifty milligram of niacin, while others may flush when the intake is hundred milligrams. Hence, it is essential to consult a doctor before you take the niacin dose. If you are sensitive to some substances, you may be also sensitive to niacin too. Many individuals may not have any problem after taking the niacin dosage. But you may be sensitive to it. So it is better to check beforehand.
Itching and rashes
niacin side effects
Another side effect of niacin which is often accompanied by flushing is itching and the development of rashes. This is referred to as niacin itching and niacin rashes. However recent research shows that these reactions to niacin are normal and are not reasons to be worried about. The rash can develop on any part of your body. The rash may be a small one, but it is quite unpleasant. The rash goes away as soon as you stop your niacin intake. The outbreak of rash also indicates towards an allergic reaction. Therefore, an individual should stop using niacin for a while to help in stopping these allergies.
Other side effects
Apart from these two major side-effects, many individuals suffer from some other side-effects too. Diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, nausea and a sudden lowering of the blood pressure are some of the other side effects from high doses of niacin supplements. Many individuals suffer from skin problems like pigmentation or dryness. Even some individuals have also suffered from liver problems and dizziness. The more severe side effects include blood in stool, swelling of face or mouth, dark urine, loss in appetite, muscle pain or yellowing of skin.
Niacin side effects can be best avoided if an individual consumes a well balanced diet. If an individual derives the correct level of niacin from his daily food consumption, then he need not consume niacin supplements additionally. And even if the individual suffers from niacin deficiency, then it is compulsory for the individual to consult a doctor and take the prescribed dosage of the vitamin, to avoid future complications.
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